Michael Rowland will leave the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in February 2026 after a 39-year career. The veteran journalist confirmed his decision in an on-air statement, marking the end of one of the longest tenures in Australian television news. His departure closes a chapter that began in 1987 when he joined the ABC as a news cadet.
Michael Rowland on the set of ABC News Breakfast, where he served as co-host for 15 years. [ABC]
Rowland built his reputation through decades of reporting and presenting. He worked across major current affairs programs and served as Washington correspondent. In 2010, he became co-host of ABC News Breakfast. He remained in that role for 15 years, making him the program’s longest-serving male host.
Career Milestones at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Rowland joined the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in 1987. He started as a cadet journalist and quickly advanced through reporting roles. Over time, he contributed to flagship programs including Lateline and 7.30.
Michael Rowland reporting from Washington during his tenure as the ABC’s US correspondent. [Daily Mail]
The network later appointed him as Washington correspondent. In that role, he covered United States politics and international developments. Editors praised his measured interviewing style and focus on verified facts. Those assignments strengthened his profile within the national broadcaster.
Fifteen Years on ABC News Breakfast
Rowland joined ABC News Breakfast as co-host in 2010. The program airs each weekday morning and provides live news coverage, interviews, and analysis. During his tenure, the show expanded its audience and strengthened its brand.
He described the program as central to his career. He said he felt proud to help build its audience over the years. He also stated he would miss viewers who watched the program daily. His consistent presence helped establish familiarity among morning audiences.
Reasons Behind the Departure
Rowland explained his decision in a public statement. He said he wanted to step away after nearly four decades in daily news and current affairs. He noted that the work environment required constant focus and long hours.
He also cited personal reasons. His wife Nikki experienced serious illness, and he said he wanted to spend more time with family. He stated that the moment felt right to move at a gentler pace. These remarks framed the decision as personal rather than professional.
ABC Leadership Responds to Michael Rowland’s Exit
ABC News director Justin Stevens acknowledged Rowland’s contribution. He described him as a familiar and trusted face for viewers. Stevens highlighted Rowland’s ability to handle both political interviews and lighter segments with ease.
The ABC emphasised continuity in its official communication. The network noted that Rowland became a key figure in the success of News Breakfast. Management has already promoted other presenters, including Bridget Brennan, to maintain stability within the program.
Impact on ABC Direction and Audience Trust
Rowland’s departure raises questions about audience engagement and network direction. He played a visible role in shaping the morning news format. Viewers often associate long-serving presenters with editorial stability.
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation headquarters as the network enters a period of presenter transition. [ABC News]
However, the ABC has experienced several senior staff changes in recent years. In 2024, co-host Lisa Millar and sports presenter Tony Armstrong left News Breakfast. These departures form part of a broader transition within the organisation. The network must now maintain audience confidence while introducing new faces.
Media Industry Competition and Public Broadcasting Challenges
Rowland’s exit comes amid strong competition among Australian breakfast programs. Commercial rivals such as Today and Sunrise compete directly for morning viewers. Ratings data in recent years showed periods where News Breakfast narrowed the gap with commercial networks.
Media commentator Rob McKnight described a pattern in which high-profile ABC hosts shift roles rather than leave entirely. He referred to this as “fake quitting” in commentary about presenter transitions. Although Rowland leaves the breakfast chair, reports indicate he may continue contributing to ABC projects through 2025. These developments highlight how public broadcasters manage experienced talent during internal changes.
Broader Context: Funding and Future of the ABC
Rowland’s departure also unfolds during ongoing discussions about ABC funding. In late 2024, the Albanese government announced additional funding and five-year guarantees for national broadcasters. Officials stated that the move aimed to affirm editorial independence and operational stability.
The ABC still faces financial pressures despite those commitments. Budget adjustments in previous years reduced real-term funding levels. Supporters argue that experienced journalists strengthen public broadcasting. Critics question staffing strategies during funding debates. Rowland’s exit adds context to those ongoing conversations.
Long-Term Outlook for Australian Journalism
The ABC now enters a period of generational renewal. Other senior figures, including Fran Kelly and Leigh Sales, have stepped down from long-running roles in recent years. These transitions signal a broader shift within Australia’s public media landscape.
New presenters will need to uphold established editorial standards. Rowland’s career reflected a focus on factual reporting and balanced interviews. The broadcaster must maintain those principles while adapting to changing audience habits. Digital platforms and on-demand viewing continue to reshape how Australians access news.
Rowland’s decision marks the end of a significant era in Australian journalism. He spent nearly four decades reporting and presenting for the national broadcaster. As the ABC restructures its on-air team, it faces the challenge of retaining audience trust and sustaining credibility. The organisation has committed to continuity in values while welcoming new talent into leadership roles.
Michael Rowland leaves behind a legacy tied closely to ABC News Breakfast and the broader mission of public broadcasting in Australia. His career illustrates the role experienced journalists play in shaping national conversation. The coming years will show how the ABC balances renewal with tradition in a competitive media environment.
FAQs
- Why is Michael Rowland leaving the ABC?
Michael Rowland announced in February 2026 that he would leave the Australian Broadcasting Corporation after 39 years. He cited personal reasons, including his wife’s serious illness, and said he wanted to spend more time with family and move at a slower pace after decades in daily news.
- How long did Michael Rowland work at the ABC?
Michael Rowland worked at the ABC for 39 years. He joined the broadcaster in 1987 as a news cadet and went on to hold senior reporting and presenting roles.
- How long was Michael Rowland on ABC News Breakfast?
Rowland co-hosted ABC News Breakfast for 15 years. He joined the program in 2010 and became its longest-serving male host.
- What roles did Michael Rowland hold at the ABC?
During his career, Rowland worked as a reporter, Washington correspondent, and presenter. He appeared on programs including Lateline and 7.30 before becoming a long-term co-host of ABC News Breakfast.
- Who will replace Michael Rowland on News Breakfast?
The ABC has promoted other presenters within the network to maintain continuity. Bridget Brennan has been among those stepping into expanded roles as the broadcaster restructures its on-air lineup.
- Is Michael Rowland retiring completely?
Rowland is stepping down from his full-time hosting role. However, reports indicate he may continue contributing to ABC projects in a different capacity through 2025.
- What has the ABC said about Michael Rowland’s departure?
ABC News Director Justin Stevens described Rowland as a trusted and familiar presence. The broadcaster acknowledged his major contribution to the success of News Breakfast over 15 years.
