David Chau to replace Alan Kohler as ABC 7PM News finance presenter

The ABC has appointed David Chau as finance presenter on its 7PM News, replacing retiring Alan Kohler, and has recruited economics journalist Jessica Irvine as Money Correspondent in its national business reporting team.

Kohler will present his final 7PM News finance report this Wednesday, 14 October, after 31 years at the public broadcaster. He has moved up his departure to join his son, Chris, on their new podcast.

Irvine will start at the ABC next month.

READ MORE: ABC's Alan Kohler retires after three decades

Chau steps up from the News Channel

Chau has covered business for close to a decade. He trained and worked as a litigation lawyer for five years before moving into journalism. He joined the ABC in 2017 as a digital producer and began presenting finance reports on the News Channel in 2019.

“To find out I’ll be presenting the evening finance segment is a ‘pinch me’ moment,” Chau said. “I’m honoured for this opportunity to continue Alan Kohler’s legacy – the man is indisputably a national treasure.”

Chau said watching Kohler had shaped his own interest in finance.

“Being the son of a Vietnam War refugee, we didn’t have a lot of money when I was growing up. Educating myself about finance was important, so I made sure to consume as much news as possible. Watching Alan’s finance reports was a highlight for me, and I learned a lot from them.

“What excites me about this role is that I get to demystify the world of finance for viewers every night. You can certainly count on me to make finance news more relatable, easy-to-understand and even fun.”

ABC Director, News Simon Robinson said: “I’m delighted David Chau has agreed to take on this bigger role in the ABC’s daily coverage. David has built a reputation as a clear, reliable explainer of markets and corporate news. Audiences already know the expertise and enthusiasm he brings to business and finance reporting. I’m really looking forward to tuning in every evening as he explains those hugely important stories to our audience.”

Irvine takes on new Money Correspondent role

As Money Correspondent, Irvine will report across platforms on where the economy, business and personal finances meet. Her brief covers reporting and analysis on how major economic and policy issues affect all Australians.

Irvine spent close to two decades at The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. She was also National Economics Editor at News Corp. She has covered 18 federal budgets and written five books on household finance and the economy.

“I’m excited to join the ABC and be part of the outstanding business team and to continue to help Australians understand their money better,” Irvine said.

Robinson said: “It’s terrific to have Jessica Irvine joining the business team. The economy and cost of living issues are at the forefront of Australians’ minds, and Jess brings exceptional experience to reporting in this area.”

Kohler’s early exit

Kohler announced his retirement on 30 September and had planned to sign off on 16 December. He joined the ABC in 1995 as business and economics correspondent for the 7.30 Report and has been the lead finance presenter on the 7PM News since 2002. He also hosted Inside Business.

Before joining the ABC, Kohler edited the Australian Financial Review and The Age, and he later founded Eureka Report and Business Spectator.

“On behalf of the ABC, I extend to Alan Kohler our sincere thanks for his incredible contribution and best wishes for the future,” Robinson said. “He has been a respected and admired part of the ABC family for three decades and leaves a huge legacy.”