The ABC has today announced 7:30 executive producer, Justin Stevens has been appointed as the new director of ABC news, analysis and investigations.
The announcement follows the departure of former news director, Gaven Morris, who departed from the national broadcaster in October, 2021.
“I’m incredibly proud to be part of ABC News and it’s an honour to be given the opportunity to lead this great team,” said Stevens (featured image) in a public statement.
“The ABC celebrates 90 years this year and ABC News is a huge part of its proud heritage.
“Australians trust ABC News to deliver the quality public interest journalism and services they need and which are a key part of a healthy democracy. That job is more vital than ever.”
https://twitter.com/leighsales/status/1509292813124472833
Prior to working as an executive producer and his recent appointment, Stevens boasted years of experience in both journalist and producer roles.
Besides having been executive producer of national affairs flagship program 7:30 for the past four years, he also previously worked on Four Corners, where he produced programs such as the Hillary Clinton’s interview with Sarah Ferguson, profiles on Clive Palmer and Bill Shorten, and a special focusing on the South China Sea disputes.
Prior to this, Stevens produced four-part series Keating: the Interviews, and three-part series The Killing Season, for which he won an AACTA Award and Logie Award.
Stevens initially began his career at the Nine Network in 2005 where he worked as a researcher on the Sunday and Hypotheticals programs.
He joined the national broadcaster in 2006, where he worked as a producer and supervising producer on 7:30 until 2014.
Stevens’ appointment has been met with plenty of celebration from contemporaries and co-workers alike.
“Justin has a proven track record in editorial leadership across complex issues and events,” commented,” said ABC managing director, David Anderson.
“Together with the ABC News executive team, Justin will lead the next stage of the ABC News strategy to be more accessible, valuable and relevant to Australians across all platforms, with the highest quality journalism always at the core.”
Stevens’ longtime co-worker and current 7:30 host, Leigh Sales, took to Twitter to congratulate Stevens on his new appointment.
“Let me tell you what I know to be true about him: excellent journalist, outstanding judgment, supportive colleague, caring friend, courageous leader,” she tweeted.
“He has true integrity, decency and emotional intelligence. You think I’m overstating? I’m understating, ask anyone who’s worked with him. I’m so proud of what he’s achieved, who he is and of all what we’ve done together at 7.30.”
Stevens’ appointment is effective from Monday, April 4.
