ABC managing director Hugh Marks faced Senate estimates on Thursday, a day after the sudden resignation of news director Justin Stevens, but offered little clarity on the circumstances. Stevens stepped down after four years, citing personal and professional reasons, with immediate effect. His successor had already been chosen, raising questions about whether he was pushed.
Liberal senator Sarah Henderson repeatedly asked Marks if Stevens was pushed, encouraged to resign, or on the chopping block. Marks did not deny the suggestions, instead calling it 'an opportunity for us to move forward'. When asked if he threatened to terminate Stevens if he did not resign, Marks said it was 'inappropriate' to discuss individual discussions, a response seen as indicating he has brought Nine's culture to the ABC.
The timing of the announcement has sparked controversy. Stevens emailed staff at 1.52pm, the managing director's office sent a note at 1.53pm, and a story in Nine newspapers appeared at 1.54pm. Henderson asked if the story had been 'briefed out', suggesting a coordinated leak. Marks also reportedly was furious that the Guardian's scoop about the appointment of Simon Robinson was revealed during estimates.
Despite the scrutiny, ABC journalists praised Stevens. Leigh Sales called him a 'great bloke, tremendous father, excellent journalist' with impeccable integrity. Sarah Ferguson noted his 'immense kindness and loyalty'. Stan Grant, who left the ABC in 2023, said Stevens was 'a man of decency and kindness' who never lost his integrity.
Marks, former Nine Entertainment managing director, has signalled major changes at the public broadcaster, including potentially axing longstanding programs. Speculation has focused on 7.30, which is 40 years old this year, though the show is considered safe for now.
