Justin Stevens has used a lengthy LinkedIn post to reflect on his turbulent four year run leading ABC News, after confirming he is stepping down from the broadcaster following nearly two decades with the organisation.
The outgoing director of news described the role as “incredibly tough but immensely rewarding”, while reflecting on the pressures facing ABC News during a period of intense scrutiny and rapid digital change.
The former executive producer of 7.30 became the ABC’s director of news at just 38 and has since overseen the broadcaster’s sprawling news and current affairs division through one of the industry’s most challenging periods.
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In his LinkedIn post, Stevens defended the work of ABC News while outlining several initiatives introduced during his tenure, including ABC News Verify, expanded state investigations teams and the return of Stateline.
He also pointed to the broadcaster’s digital growth, the launch of ABC News Loop on third party platforms and reforms to international coverage that included reestablishing a correspondent presence in China.
Stevens said the organisation continued to connect strongly with audiences across television, digital and audio during his tenure.
“We are number one in digital. Our 7pm audience has grown. The News Channel is stronger than ever. Our news audio podcasts are a powerhouse.”
Stevens said both professional and personal reasons contributed to his decision to leave after 19 years, adding it was time for “someone else to take over the helm of the best News team in the country.”
In a statement to ABC News, managing director Hugh Marks thanked Stevens for his “incredible commitment to the ABC” and praised his leadership during a period of significant change across the local and international media landscape.
Stevens also used his farewell message to acknowledge the ABC’s behind the scenes staff, saying much of the broadcaster’s journalism relied on teams whose work rarely receives public recognition.
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The resignation lands just a day before ABC executives are due to appear before Senate estimates hearings in Canberra.
*This article updates
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