Sabra Lane, the prominent presenter of ABC’s flagship current affairs program AM, has announced her resignation after nearly ten years in the role. Lane revealed her decision during the broadcast on November 1, 2023, sharing that she would be taking a long break and returning next year in a different capacity. Her departure comes just a year before the program’s 60th anniversary.
In her announcement, Lane expressed gratitude to her listeners, stating, “Thank you, dear listeners, it’s been an absolute privilege.” She indicated that this decision was prompted by her need for a break, saying, “My body is saying, ‘enough’.” Lane joined AM in 2017, having previously served as the political editor for 7.30 and reporting on federal politics since 2008.
Career Highlights and Contributions
Lane’s journey in journalism began in her hometown of Mildura, where she graduated from St Joseph’s College in 1985. She studied journalism in Adelaide and commenced her career as a reporter-producer at Channel Ten. Her impressive trajectory continued as she became the executive producer of Sunday Sunrise before joining ABC Radio as its chief political correspondent in 2011. Over the years, she reported for various programs, including PM and The World Today, before taking the helm of AM.
Lane has hosted the program from Hobart and has often reflected on her role with passion. “When I was approached to anchor AM, it was a dream come true,” she noted in a statement on the ABC website. Her commitment to the program included a pledge to present for at least two electoral cycles, a commitment she completed over three cycles.
Legacy and Future Plans
As her tenure comes to a close, Lane emphasized the importance of accountability in politics. “To the politicians and leaders who’ve not wanted to front up, but still have, thank you. It is essential in a healthy democracy for you to appear, explain your decisions and be accountable,” she said, urging for honesty and clarity in political communications.
Former AM executive producer Kim Landers paid tribute to Lane’s contributions, noting the challenge ahead for her successor. “Sabra is smart, she’s persistent, she can be slightly annoying for her interviewees – but she is always asking questions people want answered,” Landers remarked. She highlighted the significant impact Lane made on the program and acknowledged the high expectations for whoever steps into the role next.
The ABC has confirmed that a new host for AM will be announced in due course. As Lane prepares for her transition, she leaves behind a legacy of insightful reporting and a commitment to engaging with the public on pressing political issues.
