In a significant start to 2026, two prominent news presenters have announced their resignations from major Australian networks. Ben Avery has decided to leave Nine News, where he has been a pivotal figure, to assume the role of chief media advisor for the new South Australian Liberal leader, Ashton Hurn. Meanwhile, Christie Cooper has revealed her departure from Seven News after a 13-year tenure, marking a new chapter in her career.
Ben Avery, a seasoned journalist, has been a cornerstone of Nine’s Adelaide office since 2010. He has served in various capacities, including senior reporter, deputy news director, and notably as the Nine Network’s Europe correspondent from 2020 to 2021. His departure marks the end of an era for Nine News, with Adelaide news director Jeremy Pudney praising him as an “outstanding member” of the team. Pudney expressed his regret at Avery’s departure but extended Nine’s best wishes for his future endeavors.
Christie Cooper, on the other hand, took to LinkedIn to announce her resignation from Seven News. She expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunities that 2026 holds, including launching her new venture, ‘Growing Healthier Futures,’ and continuing her work as a freelance journalist. Cooper is set to cover the Australian Open for Tennis Australia in the coming weeks, signaling a dynamic start to her freelance career.
The Impact of Avery’s Departure
Avery’s transition to a political advisory role underscores a growing trend where experienced journalists are sought after for their communication skills in political spheres. His move is expected to bring a wealth of media expertise to Ashton Hurn’s team, potentially influencing the media strategies of the South Australian Liberal Party.
According to media analysts, Avery’s departure may create a vacuum at Nine News Adelaide, where he played a crucial role in shaping the newsroom’s editorial direction. The network will likely face challenges in filling the gap left by such an experienced journalist, particularly one who has a deep understanding of both local and international news landscapes.
Cooper’s New Ventures
Christie Cooper’s decision to leave Seven News reflects a broader trend of media professionals seeking more flexible and varied career paths. Her new business, ‘Growing Healthier Futures,’ aims to merge her passion for journalism with her interest in health and sustainability. Cooper’s move to freelance work also highlights the increasing demand for investigative journalism and long-form content in today’s media environment.
In her LinkedIn post, Cooper expressed her eagerness to engage in more investigative journalism and longer-form content production, areas that have seen a resurgence in interest as audiences seek in-depth analysis and storytelling. Her experience and reputation in the industry are likely to attract a wide range of freelance opportunities.
Industry Reactions and Future Implications
The departures of Avery and Cooper come at a time when the media industry is undergoing significant changes, with digital platforms reshaping how news is consumed and produced. Their career moves may inspire other journalists to explore diverse roles within and outside traditional media settings.
As networks like Nine and Seven adjust to these high-profile exits, the industry will be watching closely to see how they adapt and innovate in response. The potential for new voices and perspectives in these newsrooms could lead to fresh approaches in news reporting and storytelling.
Both Avery and Cooper’s next steps will be closely followed by industry insiders and audiences alike, as they embark on new chapters that could redefine their careers and influence the broader media landscape.
