ABC Appoints David Chau as New Finance Presenter 2026

The ABC has appointed David Chau as its new finance presenter on the 7pm news bulletins, replacing the retiring Alan Kohler. The national broadcaster announced the change on Monday, marking a significant shift in its finance coverage.

David Chau to Replace Alan Kohler

David Chau, who joined the ABC as a digital producer in 2017, will take over the role of finance presenter. Chau began presenting finance reports on the ABC's News Channel in 2019 and has since become a familiar face to audiences. In a statement on Monday, Chau said he was "honoured for this opportunity to continue Alan Kohler's legacy – the man is indisputably a national treasure".

Kohler, a veteran finance journalist, announced his retirement last month after 31 years at the ABC. He will present his final finance segment on Wednesday night's 7pm bulletins. Kohler joined what was then called The 7.30 Report in December 1995 as business and economics correspondent, after three years as editor of The Age. He later became the lead finance presenter on the 7pm bulletins.

Jessica Irvine Joins as Money Correspondent

In addition to Chau's appointment, the ABC has announced that Jessica Irvine will join the broadcaster's national business reporting team in the newly created role of money correspondent. Irvine will report on the intersection of the economy, business, and people's personal finances. She was previously an economics journalist at the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age for nearly two decades, and subsequently produced personal finance content for the Commonwealth Bank. Irvine will start at the ABC in November.

Key Takeaways from the ABC Shake-Up

• David Chau will replace Alan Kohler as finance presenter on the ABC's 7pm news bulletins.
• Kohler retires after 31 years at the ABC, with his final segment airing on Wednesday night.
• Jessica Irvine joins as money correspondent, a newly created role, starting in November.
• The changes signal a renewed focus on personal finance and business reporting at the national broadcaster.

Comparing the Appointments

The ABC's new appointments bring different strengths to its finance coverage. The table below compares the roles and backgrounds of David Chau and Jessica Irvine.

What This Means for ABC's Finance Coverage

With these appointments, the ABC is positioning itself to deliver comprehensive finance and business news. Chau's experience in digital and on-air reporting will ensure continuity in the 7pm bulletins, while Irvine's expertise in personal finance will deepen the broadcaster's coverage of money matters affecting everyday Australians.

Kohler's retirement marks the end of an era, but the new team aims to build on his legacy. As Chau steps into the role, viewers can expect the same level of analysis and insight that Kohler provided for over three decades.

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