The Seven Network has officially opened its new Parliament House bureau in Canberra, marking a major investment in political journalism and live news coverage.
The launch was officiated by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, with senior political and media figures in attendance.
A modern space
The upgraded bureau doubles the size of Seven’s previous space, which had remained largely unchanged since Parliament House opened in 1987.
The expansion includes a purpose-built studio capable of hosting live broadcasts, interviews, and in-depth political programming, designed to bring Australians closer to the nation’s key decisions and debates.
Attendees at the launch included Treasurer Jim Chalmers, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, Seven West Media Chairman Kerry Stokes AC, SGH Managing Director and CEO Ryan Stokes AO, Seven West Media Managing Director and CEO Jeff Howard, and Seven’s Director of News and Current Affairs Ray Kuka.
Strengthening national coverage
Seven West Media Chairman Kerry Stokes AC said the new bureau demonstrates the network’s ongoing commitment to delivering trusted, agenda-setting journalism.
“Our new Canberra bureau is a powerful statement about our commitment to delivering trusted, agenda-setting journalism from the heart of Australian politics,” Stokes said.
“Canberra is where decisions are made and national conversations begin. With our new bureau, we’re strengthening our ability to break stories, hold power to account and bring Australians closer to the issues that impact their lives every day.”
Seven West Media Managing Director and CEO Jeff Howard said the upgrade marks a major investment in the network’s political coverage.
“It’s a space designed for impact and built for the future,” Howard said.
“The expansion strengthens Seven’s position as a leader in political reporting, offering enhanced capabilities for live coverage, interviews and in-depth storytelling.”
Celebrating leadership
7NEWS Political Editor Mark Riley, who has reported from Parliament House since 1993, hosted the official opening. Riley said the new facilities reflect Seven’s commitment to maintaining its edge in political reporting.
“We’re so proud that the best team in Canberra now has the best studio and office facilities to continue bringing our viewers the political news that really matters to them and their families,” Riley said.
Ray Kuka, Director of News and Current Affairs, praised the bureau’s role in setting the national agenda.
“The impact of the bureau’s ability to break stories, scrutinise government actions and drive the national agenda is something we’re incredibly proud of at 7NEWS,” Kuka said.
“Mark Riley stands as the country’s longest-serving TV political broadcaster. No one delivers insight or asks questions like him – his instincts and the strength of the team he leads set a benchmark in Australian journalism.”
The new Canberra bureau follows the launch of Seven’s purpose-built Melbourne headquarters earlier this year, along with upgrades to its Sydney broadcast centre and Brisbane studio.