ABC radio broadcaster, Virginia Trioli, has stepped down from her role presenting the ABC Melbourne morning program to host a new prime-time ABC arts program next year. 

Victoria’s loss is Australia’s gain.

Managing Director, David Anderson, said the new interview series will be part of the ABC’s expanded arts coverage next year. 

“Virginia has had a long association with the arts, stretching back to her early years in broadcasting. Her knowledge and undisputed passion for the arts will give our new arts line up a significant boost in 2024”

He said the ABC would offer new arts programs across TV, radio and digital. 

ABC Chief Content Officer, Chris Oliver-Taylor, said the new series on ABC TV and ABC iview will celebrate some of the luminaries of the art world. 

ABC President, Cassandra Parkinson said viewers would be looking for an arts program that offers depth and insight. 

Virginia began her media career at The Age in 1990 and has worked for the ABC since 1999, presenting Drive on ABC Radio Melbourne, the Mornings show on ABC Radio Sydney and Lateline. From 2008, she co-presented ABC News Breakfast before replacing Jon Faine on ABC Radio Melbourne’s Breakfast program in 2019. 

“I’m thrilled to return to my first love of arts coverage and to be a part of the ABC’s new cultural strategy, “Virginia said.  

Backlash against ABC arts changes

In July, ABC Friends reported criticism of the ABC when it announced changes to its arts programs and coverage, which many in the industry saw as a significant downgrade.

The changes led to Managing Arts Editor, Edwina Throsby, and Digital Arts editor, Dee Jefferson, being made redundant.

ABC Friends remains concerned that cutting the ABC’s two most senior arts positions will result in less arts reporting and coverage.

“I hope our fears prove groundless. We’re looking forward to seeing the other arts programs that the ABC is planning,” Cassandra Parkinson said.

Sophie Arnold
E-news Editor