Michael Rowland calls time on outstanding ABC career – After an outstanding 39-year career Michael Rowland has made the decision to leave the ABC, with this week being his last.
Michael joined the ABC in Sydney in February 1987 as a radio news cadet and went on to work in a variety of roles over the years, including reporting on state and federal politics and being Lateline’s Economics Correspondent.
From 2005-2009 Michael was an ABC Washington Correspondent, covering the election of Barack Obama, the David Hicks case at Guantanamo Bay and the Global Financial Crisis. He has been back to the US to help anchor ABC coverage of the last four Presidential elections.
Returning to Melbourne he became co-presenter of ABC News Breakfast in June 2010. The program had been on air around 18 months and Michael became a key figure in its success, a familiar and trusted face for viewers each morning for the next 15 years.
After leaving the program in December 2024 he filled in presenting The Radio National Hour and most recently was National Affairs Reporter for 7.30.
Michael Rowland:
“It’s not easy walking away from my professional home of the past 39 years, but in so many respects this is the right decision for me and my family.
“I am tremendously grateful for the many opportunities the ABC has given me over almost four decades. I have done everything from the overnight police rounds shift as an ABC cadet to presenting various national TV programs. I have had a charmed career.
“In return, I have devoted literally most of my life to the ABC. I am now keen to move on to the next stage – and spend more time with family and friends. Thanks also to all the great colleagues and mentors I have worked with over the years, many of whom have become lifelong friends.
“I want to say a huge thank you to the ABC audience for watching, listening and reading over the years. Hopefully, I have left everyone just a bit more informed from the thousands of stories I have reported and presented, and maybe a bit brighter from my dubious gags on breakfast TV.”
Justin Stevens, Director, News:
“I’ve known Michael for a number of years and always hugely valued his experience, reliability and heft. I’ve seen first-hand his commitment to audiences and quality news services and his passion for the ABC and public broadcasting.
“While the ABC and audiences will miss him, he has made an indelible contribution and leaves a legacy of fine journalism, absolute professionalism and great personal integrity. It has been a privilege to work alongside him and I know you’ll join me in wishing him the very best.”
Explore some of the standout moments from Michael’s career here, and read his personal reflections on his journey here.
Media Release – ABC
TV Central ABC content HERE
Michael Rowland calls time on outstanding ABC career
