Ita Buttrose is stepping away from ‘tough’ ABC executive job – so who could replace her?
- Ita Buttrose will leave the presidency of ABC in March
- The Minister of Communications pays tribute
- Buttrose hinted at the decision last week
Ita Buttrose will leave the presidency of ABC in March after deciding not to apply after five “difficult” years in the position, the Albanian government has revealed.
Communications Minister Michelle Rowland made the shock announcement on Tuesday.
“Ms Buttrose is a giant in the Australian media industry, and the Government thanks her for her exemplary service as President of the ABC,” Rowland said as he paid tribute to the media icon’s time at the head of the national public broadcaster.
Just last Friday, Buttrose, 81, told ABC radio she was still deciding whether to raise her hand for another five-year term.
“I’m thinking about it,” Buttrose told Melbourne morning host Virginia Trioli.
ABC chair Ita Buttrose will not seek five more years at the helm of the national public broadcaster
“I found the ABC very challenging, but very enjoyable.”
“The five years have passed very quickly, but it’s a big decision whether or not I’m going to do another five years because I have to be practical.
“I’m a middle-aged woman and while everything is going well right now, life is full of unexpected twists and you never know how it’s going to turn out.”
Buttrose was chosen for the role in 2019 by then Prime Minister Scott Morrison as “Captain’s Choice” because her name was not on a shortlist compiled by an independent selection committee.
“Australians trust Ita. I trust Ita and that’s why I asked her to take on this role,’ Mr Morrison said after announcing his choice.
Buttrose’s departure is already fueling speculation about who will take on one of the most prestigious and high-profile media roles in the country.
More soon
