The former ABC broadcaster Kerry O’Brien delivered a stirring address at the 70th Walkley Awards on Thursday night, earning a standing ovation from the audience at ICC Sydney. O’Brien, a six-time Walkley winner, including the prestigious Gold Walkley, highlighted the “clear and present danger” facing a strong, free, and independent media worldwide.
O’Brien’s speech called for unity within the industry to bolster press freedom. He began by honoring Palestinian journalists who have “confronted the world with powerful evidence that has gradually taken on the look and feel of genocide in real time,” while condemning the “outrageous casualty list of Palestinian journalists and other media workers in Israel’s war on Gaza since the brutal attack by Hamas on Israeli citizens two years ago.”
The former host of the ABC’s 7.30 also critiqued Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for failing to deliver on promises made in opposition regarding press freedom, whistleblower protection, and national shield laws. “He’s certainly talked the talk, and to a degree he’s walked the walk, but given what’s at stake now and in a potentially very volatile climate ahead … we as an industry cannot afford to lose sight of important unfinished business,” O’Brien asserted.
Press Freedom Under Threat
O’Brien’s remarks come amid increasing concerns about press freedom globally. He urged the media to remain vigilant, reminding them of the sacrifices made by journalists in conflict zones like Gaza, Ukraine, Russia, China, Myanmar, and Afghanistan. “If we think we’re doing it tough … remind yourself of those journalists in Gaza or Ukraine, or Russia or China, or Myanmar or Afghanistan who’ve been shut down or gone to prison, or gone to their graves for an ideal – for seeking to report the truth,” he said.
Highlighting attacks on the press in the US and Saudi Arabia, O’Brien, now 80, warned, “Don’t kid yourself it can’t happen here.”
Calls for Diversity in Media
Meanwhile, Paula Kruger, CEO of Media Diversity Australia, criticized the ABC for its lack of diversity following reports of an all-male lineup at ABC Sydney after Chris Bath’s departure. Kruger, a former ABC radio presenter, noted that all local radio presenters from Breakfast to Drive are not only male but also white.
In a LinkedIn post, Kruger challenged the ABC, stating, “If you are content with delivering an ‘all white is alright’ and ‘all bloke means we’re not woke’ lineup to a 2025/26 audience, there is no saving you.” She emphasized the disconnect between the ABC’s representation and the diverse world outside, asking, “How can they trust you when you can’t see the world they see?”
Kruger also responded to ABC’s audio director Ben Latimer’s comment that “there is always more to do” on diversity, by pointing out the lack of progress over the past decade. Latimer did not respond to requests for comment.
The Role of AI in Journalism
In another development, Kim Williams, appointed ABC chair in January 2024, has been vocal about the implications of artificial intelligence on journalism. Williams, described by Prime Minister Albanese as a “true renaissance man,” has expressed concerns about AI’s “dangerous and sinister” potential if left unchecked.
Williams, a former CEO of News Corp, believes AI could devastate entry-level jobs in fields like accounting and law but sees less impact on journalism. He recently delivered his second keynote speech on AI’s future at the UTS Centre for Media Transition, advocating for “ground rules” to regulate tech moguls.
“I cannot begin to describe the frustration I have with the way in which proponents of AI and proponents of AI investment are treated with kid gloves as if [to say] how dare we offer an opinion as to the consequences of interfering in their untrammelled right to do whatever they think is necessary in pursuit of AI development pathways,” Williams said.
Williams criticized the laissez-faire attitude towards AI development, comparing it unfavorably to how society traditionally operates.
Media Mishaps and Milestones
In a lighter yet concerning incident, Seven News faced criticism after posting a video about Pauline Hanson that mistakenly featured a kangaroo and the US Capitol instead of Australian Parliament House. The video has since been removed.
On a somber note, the media industry mourns the loss of Prof. Graeme Turner, a leading cultural studies academic who passed away at 78. Turner was known for his influential work on media and culture, including a notable study on talkback radio.
Finally, The Australian celebrated audience growth, citing Roy Morgan Iris figures that rank it 14th among digital sites, with an audience of 3.5 million. This growth comes as part of a new brand campaign emphasizing “the contest of ideas.”
As the media landscape continues to evolve, these developments underscore the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing journalism today.
