Liz Hayes, a well-known figure in Australian journalism, has announced that she will seek new opportunities outside the 9Network in 2025.
This marks the end of an impressive 44-year career at Nine, where she worked on shows like 9News, Today, 60 Minutes, and Under Investigation with Liz Hayes.
Hayes will still be associated with Nine and viewers can look forward to seeing her for special stories and events.
Her extensive and award-winning career includes a diverse array of stories. As a storyteller, she connects deeply with her audience. Beyond her storytelling, she stands out as one of Australia’s most accomplished women in media.
Liz began her journey with 9News in 1981 as a reporter and later presented the morning news. In 1986, she became co-host of Today alongside Steve Liebmann, a role she maintained for a decade.
She joined 60 Minutes in 1996, covering topics from US elections to the Syrian refugee crisis and various natural disasters worldwide.
Recognised as one of the best interviewers in Australian television, Liz has interviewed Prime Ministers, business leaders, Hollywood stars, music icons, and top athletes. However, her greatest impact lies in highlighting the stories of ordinary people in extraordinary situations.
Over her 44 years in journalism, Liz has received numerous accolades, including a Logie Award for her work on the documentary The Greatest Gift and the 2024 Media Diversity Australia Award for Under Investigation with Liz Hayes. This award acknowledges journalists who significantly contribute to reporting on diverse issues in Australia, marking a milestone as the first recognition of its kind for a commercial television network.
In her own words, Liz reflected on her early days at Nine, expressing gratitude for the experience and friendships formed along the way. She emphasised that while much has changed in the media landscape, the need for compelling stories remains, and she intends to keep telling them.
Michael Healy, Nine’s Director of Television, praised Liz as a television legend, recognising her dedication and the lasting impact she has made on Australian journalism. He acknowledged her tenacity, pursuit of truth, and exceptional storytelling ability, expressing confidence that her next chapter will be just as successful as her past.