David Speers will join ABC NEWS as presenter of premier political discussion program Insiders.
A two-time Walkley Award winner for his political interviewing, Speers has been at Sky News Australia since 2000 and is currently its Political Editor.
“David is a terrific journalist and presenter, an astute political observer and a great talent. He joins Australia’s best and most trusted political journalism team,” said ABC Director News Gaven Morris.
“We are delighted to welcome him to this key role as the successor to the great Barrie Cassidy.”
Speers will move to Melbourne to take up the chair at Insiders from early 2020, working with Executive Producer Sam Clark.
“Insiders is essential viewing if you’re interested in politics and understanding how Australia is being led,” Speers said.
“I never miss it. To be able to take over from a legend, Barrie Cassidy, and present the program is an honour and a terrific opportunity.”
After presenting Insiders since its launch, Cassidy announced earlier this year he would be moving on from the role, with his farewell program this Sunday 9 June.
The ABC’s Annabel Crabb and Fran Kelly will share the presenting duties on Insiders for the remainder of 2019.
Insiders
Launched in July 2001, Insiders is broadcast 9.00am-10.00am EST Sundays on ABC and ABC NEWS channel. Each Sunday the nation’s top political commentators take viewers to the heart of the action with a unique mix of news, interviews, analysis and laughs. It is the most watched morning show on Australian television with an average 5-city metro audience YTD 2019 of 292,000 (excluding the federal election weekend).
