David Speers, the host of the ABC’s flagship political show Insiders, has been appointed as the broadcaster’s national political news leader, a newly created position, following the departure of former political editor Andrew Probyn .
Speers, who joined the ABC from Sky News Australia in 2019 as a replacement for inaugural host Barrie Cassidy, recently moved to Canberra with Insiders, airing its first episode in the nation’s capital on last week
Probyn’s political editor role was dropped by ABC management in a recent round of cuts, which could eventually see up to 120 staff leave the station.
Inside host David Speers delivered an extended political role.Credit: Photo: Justin McManus
ABC News director Justin Stevens asked Speers to take on an expanded role within its political coverage, which Speers agreed to.
“It’s great to have the show that deals with the nation’s politics now at the center of the action,” Speers said.
“As Australians grapple with very important issues around the cost of living, housing, climate change, Indigenous voice and many others, the Insiders team will be on the ground to help them navigate how policies and policies affect the nation and people.lives.
“I am also very pleased to have an expanded presence in the office. The ABC Parliament House team is a powerhouse of incredibly talented and dedicated journalists. It is a privilege to be part of this team and I look forward to working even more closely with everyone”, he added.
Stevens said Speers would have a broader role in the station’s weekly political coverage, outside of the Sunday Insiders slot.
“David Speers is a well-respected political reporter and with his Insiders responsibilities now based in Canberra full-time, we have the opportunity to make better use of his extensive experience for the rest of the week.”
