Veteran ABC finance presenter Alan Kohler is retiring at the end of the year after three decades with the national broadcaster. Kohler, 74, will deliver his final 7pm News finance report on December 16, closing a run as the network’s lead financial commentator.
A Three-Decade Reign on Australian Television
For millions of viewers tuning into the evening news, the familiar broadcast rhythm was anchored by an unmistakable sign-off: And that’s finance
. Since 2002, Alan Kohler has served as the lead finance presenter on the 7pm news bulletin, turning complex economic policy and market fluctuations into accessible viewing through idiosyncratic graphs and a distinctive dry humour. Before his long tenure in television, Kohler built a distinguished print career, serving as editor of The Australian Financial Review and The Age, as well as writing columns for The Sydney Morning Herald, The Australian, and The New Daily. His entrepreneurial ventures included founding the online platforms Eureka Report and Business Spectator.
Reflecting on his departure, Kohler shared a statement with staff at the broadcaster.
“I find it very hard to imagine this wonderful place not being part of my life, but I’m 74 and it’s time to spend more time with my family, including the six grandchildren.”
Alan Kohler, finance presenter
Tributes From Political Leaders and Broadcasters
Treasurer Jim Chalmers led public tributes to the retiring journalist in Sydney, noting that Kohler’s accessible approach to economic reporting Theguardian. Chalmers praised the veteran commentator for boiling down difficult interactions within the national economy.
Inside the national broadcaster, senior executives emphasized the scale of his legacy. ABC Managing Director Hugh Marks credited the commentator with helping the public understand complex financial topics through decades of broadcasting. Kohler’s lockdown broadcasts during the COVID-19 pandemic — delivered from a home office featuring an evolving stack of books and a single house plant — further cemented his bond with audiences.
“For decades, he has helped Australians make sense of complex issues with insight, clarity and a uniquely engaging style, always delivered with warmth, humour and that trademark cheeky grin.”
Hugh Marks, ABC Managing Director
Final Broadcast and Succession Plans
Kohler’s final appearance on the nightly bulletin is scheduled for December 16. While he is stepping away from the daily news presenting chair, network leadership confirmed he will remain associated with the public broadcaster for special projects and future ideas. News Director Simon Robinson noted that the organization would spend the coming weeks addressing the difficult task of selecting a successor for the 7pm bulletin.
The Kohler name will remain visible across Australian media coverage, however.