She announced the departure on ABC News, saying she wants to focus on her own creative work and has two books and a TV script in development.

Trioli emphasized deep audience connections and a sense of family with listeners and viewers, thanking opportunities at the ABC and signaling she hopes to bring new ideas back to the national broadcaster.

Her career highlights include the Walkley-winning 2001 interview with Peter Reith over the Children Overboard Affair, along with memorable moments hosting News Breakfast.

Journalist Virginia Trioli is leaving ABC after 27 years to pursue her own creative projects, signaling a significant shift in Australia’s broadcasting landscape.

Her notable projects include Weekend Reads since 2019 and the Creative Types series profiling Australia’s leading creatives.

Since joining the ABC in 1999 after work at The Age and The Bulletin, Trioli has hosted a range of programs across radio and TV, including News Breakfast, Mornings, Lateline, Q&A, 7.30, and 7.30 Australia, and created Creative Types.

Trioli says she’s at the peak of her powers and eager to apply her skills in new ventures, while reflecting nostalgically on the close relationships she built with audiences and colleagues.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported the announcement on June 18, 2026, with initial publication at 10:09am and updates through the morning.

She noted she will miss the listeners, editors, and colleagues she collaborated with during her time at the ABC.

Trioli’s final day at the ABC is set for June 26, marking the end of a long-running era at the broadcaster.

ABC managing director Hugh Marks acknowledged her central role in important programs and conversations and expressed support for future collaborations.

Trioli is a multi-time award winner, holding three Walkley Awards and other major honors across her career.