Judith Whelan Leadership Fellowship launched for women in journalism – The Judith Whelan Leadership Fellowship has been launched to honour the late journalist and editorial leader, while supporting the next generation of women in Australian journalism.
The ABC, The Sydney Morning Herald and the University of Sydney have joined together to create the annual fellowship. It recognises Judith Whelan’s significant contribution to Australian media and continues her legacy of lifting future women leaders.
Judith Whelan died from cancer in 2024. Across her career, she became one of Australia’s most respected journalists and editorial leaders.
Each year, the ABC and the Herald will each select one candidate to take part in the Sydney Leadership Accelerator Program. The course is run by the University of Sydney and is designed to help both new and experienced managers lead with confidence. It also helps participants transition into more senior roles.
Fellowship recipients will also be able to select an additional short course of their choice.
In addition, the ABC and the Herald, together with the Judith Whelan Fellowship Committee, will nominate at least two women leaders to provide mentorship and guidance during the 12-month fellowship.
Chris Henning, Judith’s husband, said the fellowship was a wonderful way to remember her.
“Three institutions which she served and for which she had the greatest respect coming together in her name to foster the talents of young women in journalism, the industry she loved most – that is a fantastic initiative,” he said.
“I know she would have been pleased and so proud.”
Judith worked at the ABC from 2016. She served as one of the broadcaster’s most senior executives, first as Director of the Regional and Local division and then as Editorial Director.
Before joining the ABC, she built a long and influential career at the Herald. Her roles included Editor and News Director. She also spent seven years running the highly regarded Good Weekend magazine.
Judith also studied at the University of Sydney. During her time there, she was deeply involved in campus life and student politics. She became the first female president of the University of Sydney Union.
ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks said Judith’s impact at the ABC was lasting.
“Judith Whelan was an extraordinary leader at the ABC whose commitment and vision helped shape and strengthen our regional and rural services in lasting ways. Her absence is felt keenly by those who had the privilege of working with her.
“This Fellowship is a deeply meaningful tribute to Judith’s life and legacy — supporting and inspiring the next generation of women in journalism across the organisations that meant so much to her.”
The Sydney Morning Herald Editor Jordan Baker said Judith remained an inspiration to many women in the media industry.
“Judith was a highly respected and much-loved colleague of many at the Herald. As just the second female to edit the masthead she was an inspiration to many women in our industry and this initiative is a wonderful way to honour her legacy.”
Professor Mark Scott, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Sydney, said Judith brought energy and enthusiasm to campus life.
“During her time at the University of Sydney Judith threw herself into campus life and student politics with her trademark energy and enthusiasm, becoming the first woman to lead the University of Sydney Union.
“As a journalist and editor she combined sharp news instincts with an appreciation and flair for stories that offered entertainment and insight as well as information. We’re proud to support this Fellowship which celebrates her legacy as a mentor and inspiration to so many.”
The founding Judith Whelan Fellowship Committee includes Chris Henning; Lee Glendinning, ABC Head of Digital and National News; Monique Farmer, National Managing Editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age; Clare Masters, Executive Director of Public Affairs at the University of Sydney; and former Herald Editor Lisa Davies.
The Judith Whelan Leadership Fellowship will now stand as an annual tribute to her work, leadership and influence across Australian journalism.
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