Alan Kohler announces retirement from the ABC – Alan Kohler will retire from the ABC at the end of 2026, closing a three-decade chapter in which his sharp financial analysis, dry humour and inventive graphs became a familiar part of the network’s 7pm news bulletin.
Kohler will present his final 7pm News finance report on 16 December. The ABC says he will remain connected to the broadcaster, with discussions planned about possible future ideas and projects.
The announcement also begins a major succession process for ABC News. A replacement for one of Australian television’s most recognisable finance presenters will be selected in the coming weeks, while the broadcaster plans to mark Kohler’s contribution closer to his departure.
Three decades helping audiences understand finance
Kohler joined the ABC in 1995 as business and economics correspondent for The 7.30 Report. Since 2002, he has been the lead finance presenter on the 7pm News.
His reports became known for making complicated business and economic developments understandable to a broad audience. Charts and graphs were often paired with a wry observation, while his regular “And that’s finance” sign-off became part of the bulletin’s nightly rhythm.
Kohler said his affection for the ABC had only grown after he joined the organisation, but that the time had come to spend more time with his family.
“I love the ABC, always have, even more so after I joined it. I find it very hard to imagine this wonderful place not being part of my life, but I’m 74 and it’s time to spend more time with my family, including the six grandchildren.”
ABC leaders pay tribute
ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks described Kohler’s contribution to the broadcaster and its audiences as extraordinary.
“For decades, he has helped Australians make sense of complex issues with insight, clarity and a uniquely engaging style, always delivered with warmth, humour and that trademark cheeky grin.”
Marks said the retirement marks the end of an important chapter, but not the end of Kohler’s contribution.
ABC Director, News Simon Robinson said the organisation had enjoyed the pleasure and privilege of working with one of Australia’s most respected business commentators for 31 years.
“Sadly for us, and for the audiences who treasure him, Alan has decided to call time on this distinguished ABC tenure at the end of this year. Alan will remain connected to the ABC and we’ll be talking to him about future ideas and projects.”
Robinson said the ABC would announce Kohler’s successor on the 7pm bulletin in coming weeks.
A career spanning more than half a century
Kohler’s broader media career stretches back more than 50 years. His senior editorial roles have included editing the Australian Financial Review and The Age.
He also founded the online publications Eureka Report and Business Spectator, helping to shape a new era of digital business journalism in Australia.
In 2019, Kohler was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for significant service to print and broadcast media as an editor, journalist and finance commentator. He has also been inducted into the Australian Media Hall of Fame.
His ABC work has extended beyond the nightly finance report. Kohler hosted Inside Business, writes a weekly column for the ABC News website and app, and hosts the Friday podcast That’s Business with Alan Kohler.
The ABC says more will be announced about his contribution before his final report, giving viewers an opportunity to reflect on a television career that turned finance presentation into one of the most distinctive parts of the nightly news.
Alan Kohler presents his final ABC 7pm News finance report on Wednesday 16 December 2026.
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