We live in a time when misinformation spreads faster than corrections, and algorithms reward outrage over accuracy. In that environment, the ability to communicate trusted expert knowledge to a broad public audience isn't just a valuable skill. It's essential to a healthy democracy. That's exactly what the ABC TOP 5 is built to develop.
This week, ABC Chair Kim Williams launched applications for the 2026 ABC TOP 5 media residency program, and ABC Friends is urging members to help spread the word. The program gives fifteen early career PhD scholars the chance to spend two weeks embedded at the ABC, working alongside leading journalists and producers across audio, TV and digital.
Williams was direct about why programs like this matter right now.
"In a time when facts are questioned and unsubstantiated opinions often dominate, it is vital that the ABC keeps Australians well informed. The next generations of academics will play a central role in shaping our future through assisting better public access to necessary news and information which will assist good decision making."
Head of ABC Radio National Dina Rosendorff agrees.
"Today's audiences want more than headlines — they want understanding. By supporting emerging researchers to develop new media skills, ABC Radio National is securing the future of rigorous, public-minded storytelling."
Now in its ninth year with 80 alumni, the TOP 5 has an impressive track record. This is the program that will find Australia's next Dr Karl: the rare researchers who can hold a nation's attention with complex ideas, explained with warmth and clarity.
This year's launch was co-hosted by 2025 alumna Lolita Emmanuel, now a presenter on ABC Classic, a vivid example of the voices our ABC is cultivating.
Who can apply?
Three residencies are on offer across Humanities, Science and Arts, with five places in each stream. Researchers must hold or be studying for a PhD and be within seven years of completing it. The residencies are supported by Creative Australia, the University of Melbourne, the University of Sydney and the Australian National University, and are offered at no cost to participants. Applications close 11:59pm AEST, Sunday 6 April 2026.
Do you know someone who should apply?
Think about the researchers in your life: a grandchild finishing their PhD, a colleague whose ideas deserve a wider audience. The TOP 5 is for researchers who have something vital to say and want help saying it. In a world awash with unreliable information, those voices are needed more than ever. Please share this with anyone who fits the bill. Applications close sooner than you might think.
The TOP 5 launch also comes alongside the newly established ABC Science Journalist Fellowship Program, a proud ABC Friends initiative made possible by a $1 million donation from Margaret Bales. Together, these two programs reflect a deepening investment in the trusted voices that make public broadcasting irreplaceable.
Phil Evans
Communications
ABC Friends