In a significant move for Australian political reporting, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has officially inaugurated the Seven Network's completely transformed bureau within Parliament House in Canberra.
A New Era for Political Broadcasting
The original bureau, which had remained largely unchanged since Parliament House first opened its doors in 1987, has undergone a comprehensive renovation that has effectively doubled its size. This expansion was achieved through the incorporation of a neighbouring suite, creating space for a sophisticated new studio capable of hosting interview programs and live broadcasts when major news breaks in the nation's capital.
The official opening ceremony attracted a who's who of political and media leadership. Attendees included Treasurer Jim Chalmers, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, and key figures from Seven West Media such as Chairman Kerry Stokes AC, Managing Director and CEO Jeff Howard, and Director of News and Current Affairs Ray Kuka.
Strengthening Commitment to Political Journalism
Seven West Media Chairman, Kerry Stokes AC, emphasised that the new facility represents a powerful statement about the network's dedication to delivering trusted journalism from the centre of Australian politics. "Canberra is where decisions are made and national conversations begin," Stokes stated. "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."
Echoing this sentiment, Seven West Media Managing Director and CEO, Jeff Howard, highlighted the bureau as a major investment. "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."
The Team Behind the News
The event was hosted by 7NEWS Political Editor, Mark Riley, who brings unparalleled experience having worked in Parliament House since 1993 and now holds the distinction of being the longest-serving television broadcaster in the press gallery. Ray Kuka, Seven's Director of News and Current Affairs, praised Riley and his team, noting that "No-one tells a yarn or asks a question like him, nor the team growing beneath him."
Riley expressed pride in the new facilities, stating, "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." The opening was also attended by the entire Parliament House teams from 7NEWS, The West Australian, and The Nightly.
This investment in the Canberra bureau is part of a broader national strategy by Seven, following the recent launch of a new Melbourne headquarters, a state-of-the-art Sydney broadcast centre, and an upgraded Brisbane studio.
