ABC national political flagship program Insiders starts a new chapter this weekend with anchor David Speers presenting the first program from its new base in the nation’s capital. This Sunday’s episode will be the first from the recently upgraded ABC Canberra studio.
In addition to his Insiders hosting duties, Speers will take on an expanded role in its federal political coverage within the ABC’s Canberra Parliament House bureau as ABC News’ national political lead.
The move comes after the redundancy of previous political editor, Andrew Probyn in a major restructuring.
See Also: “Flabbergasted”: ABC political editor Andrew Probyn comments on redundancy amid restructure
Insiders Canberra studio
“It’s terrific to have the program that’s all about the nation’s politics now based right in the centre of the action,” Speers said.
“As Australians wrestle with hugely important issues around the cost of living, housing, climate change, the Indigenous Voice, and many others, the Insiders team will be on the ground to help them navigate how the policies and politics are impacting the nation and people’s lives.
“I’m also really pleased to have an expanded presence within the bureau. The ABC Parliament House team is a powerhouse of incredibly talented and dedicated journalists. It’s a privilege to be part of this team and I look forward to working even more closely with everyone.”
ABC director, news Justin Stevens said Speers would have a bigger presence in the broadcaster’s political coverage across all platforms throughout the week, alongside 7.30 chief political correspondent Laura Tingle.
“David Speers is a hugely respected political journalist and with his Insiders responsibilities now based in Canberra full-time we have the opportunity to better utilise his vast experience during the rest of the week,” he said.
“The ABC plays a vital role in scrutinising our federal policy and politicians and we plan to bring that coverage to more Australians across all ABC News services.”
This announcement is a separate initiative to the ABC’s recent proposed changes to the Canberra bureau and across ABC News. Consultation on those proposals is continuing.