The ABC is deeply saddened by the death of our great friend and esteemed colleague Peter Ryan. After a distinguished 45-year career in journalism Peter retired from the ABC last month due to ill health.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Peter’s family.
A tribute to Peter on his retirement can be read here: https://www.abc.net.au/about/media-centre/press-releases/peter-ryan-retires-from-the-abc/105467844
Listen to The World Today’s tribute to Peter Ryan
Watch here: After 45 years, business reporter Peter Ryan has called time on his career
Peter’s many career highlights include being the ABC’s Washington Bureau Chief, head of TV news and current affairs in Victoria, Executive Producer of Business Breakfast, founding editor of Lateline Business, which later became The Business, and Business Editor. Since 2016 he has held the role of Senior Business Correspondent.
In 2017 Peter won a Walkley Award for his expose on the Commonwealth Bank scandal. His coverage contributed to the calling of the banking Royal Commission and in 2018 he was the National Press Club finance journalist of the year for his coverage of the commission.
In 2022 he was recognised with the Order of Australia medal for his significant service to journalism.
ABC Director, News Justin Stevens: Peter leaves a significant legacy. Through his mentorship, friendship and professionalism he directly touched the lives of many at the ABC. Through his journalism he had a profound impact on the lives of Australians and our society. It was a privilege to know him and work alongside him.
Peter’s parting words of advice:
Peter Ryan shares his highs and lows from 45 years
So what have I learned from 45 years in journalism? This is for younger and older colleagues alike.
When I look back at my start on Sydney’s Daily Mirror in 1980, as an 18-year-old straight out of school, we were still printing newspapers off hot metal. People were smoking in newsrooms and there was a lot of yelling as deadlines ran down to the wire.
My parents were absolutely delighted when I was finally hired by the ABC in 1984. Our TV always seemed to be stuck on Channel 2, we were forced to watch the 7pm news every night and I had to listen to AM and PM in the kitchen.
I’d love to be with you all there, but one strong message I have is, never let anyone tell you the good old days were really that good – that's a bit of a myth.
I’d like to thank the ABC for taking so many risks with me over the years, giving me my dream of a foreign posting in Washington and then into big editorial roles.
But for me in the end it’s all about being a reporter out in the real world telling it as it is. I’m always chuffed when I hear people tell me you’re able to take complex issues and break them down into three good parts. When someone tells me that, that’s more important than a whole lot of awards.
A few words of editorial advice. Avoid cynicism – be passionate. A good team can often be a very small team – I've worked in some of the best. Be proactive – come to the table with a great story so no one else comes up with a dud that might waste your time.
Work closely with top people – shut up and absorb like a sponge. Maintain a fastidious contact book – some low-profile contacts could soon move into higher powered roles or more importantly work in backrooms where the big decisions are often made.
Show up to work early and prove that you’re ready to take on the big story of the day. Try to have a Plan B in your back pocket just in case your original brilliant idea doesn’t go anywhere and the EP comes walking your way.
Finally: Be kind and caring to people who need it.
Media contact
Sally Jackson, ABC Communications
jackson.sally@abc.net.au