ABC News Director Justin Stevens has resigned after 19 years at the national broadcaster, including four years leading its news division.
Stevens oversaw news coverage across the ABC’s television, radio and digital platforms during a period of significant change in the media industry, as well as heightened scrutiny of the broadcaster’s editorial standards and reporting.
ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks thanked Stevens for his service in an internal message seen by SkyNews.com.au.
“I would like to thank Justin for his incredible commitment to the ABC in the various roles he has performed during his 19 years with the organisation,” Marks said.
“During his tenure as Director of News, Justin has worked to achieve outstanding results across News output.
“Justin has achieved this through a period of significant change and challenges across the media landscape, both internationally and in Australia.
“I am grateful to have seen the strength of Justin’s editorial instincts and to have observed his commitment to the ABC and audiences. I wish him every success in the future.”
Stevens also addressed staff in an email, describing the role as “incredibly tough but immensely rewarding”.
“Having said that, for reasons both professional and personal, now is the right time for me to move on and for someone else to take over the helm of the best news team in the country,” he said.
His resignation comes ahead of a scheduled Senate estimates hearing involving ABC executives later this week.
During Stevens’ time as News Director, the broadcaster faced criticism over a series of editorial controversies and corrections, including the defamation case involving retired commando Heston Russell.
The ABC paid Russell more than $400,000 in damages after admitting fault over a report that included edited footage with added gunshot sounds.
Calls for greater accountability at the public broadcaster also intensified during his tenure, with politicians including Sarah Henderson and Pauline Hanson publicly criticising the organisation and pushing for reforms.
The ABC’s 2025 annual report also showed a slight decline in audience reach and public satisfaction, while corrections and clarifications increased from 62 to 67 over the past year.
Image: ABC
