ABC Journalist Peter Ryan Passes Away, Leaving a Lasting Legacy

Former ABC journalist and Walkley Award-winner Peter Ryan OAM has passed away at the age of 64 in Sydney, as confirmed by his family. Ryan retired from the ABC in June after a 45-year career in the industry, transitioning into palliative care due to metastatic thyroid cancer diagnosed in 2014. He chose to focus on spending time with his wife Mary Cotter, daughter Charlotte, and loved ones.

Ryan's notable career milestones included serving as the ABC's Washington bureau chief, head of TV news and current affairs in Victoria, executive producer of Business Breakfast, founding editor of Lateline Business (later The Business), and the ABC's business editor. Until his retirement, he held the position of senior business correspondent from 2016.

ABC News director Justin Stevens praised Ryan's impactful legacy, highlighting his mentorship, friendship, and professionalism that touched many lives at the ABC. Stevens acknowledged Ryan's significant influence on Australian society through his journalism.

In 2017, Ryan received a Walkley award for his investigative work on the Commonwealth Bank scandal, which played a role in the establishment of the banking royal commission. He was recognized as the National Press Club finance journalist of the year in 2018 for his coverage of the commission.

Beginning his career as a copyboy and cadet at Sydney's Daily Mirror, Ryan later joined the ABC, holding roles as a foreign correspondent, senior manager, and executive producer. In 2022, he was honored with the Order of Australia medal for his contributions to journalism.

Upon Ryan's retirement, Treasurer Jim Chalmers described him as a legendary figure, emphasizing his essential insights on the economy. Ryan's departure from the ABC was marked by a note to colleagues, offering editorial advice and encouraging passion, teamwork, proactivity, and diligence in journalism.