Sarah Ferguson appointed as ABC China Bureau Chief

Sarah Ferguson has been appointed China Bureau Chief for the ABC.

Ferguson takes over the role later this year, joining fellow China Correspondent Bill Birtles in Beijing, after completing her current project: Revelation, a 3 part look into child abuse and cover-ups within the Catholic Church.

“The China story is irresistible for a journalist,” Ferguson says. “It has become the story of our time — and one with immense implications for Australia. Understanding China and the Chinese perspective is vital.

“This is a unique opportunity to join the Beijing bureau and continue the first rate analysis and coverage my colleagues have produced.”

Gaven Morris, Director ABC NEWS, says: “Now more than ever Australians need quality, in-depth coverage of China through Australian eyes. Delivering that for our audiences will be a key element of the ABC’s international newsgathering in 2019, as well as an enhanced focus on the Asia-Pacific.

“Having journalists on the ground is essential. And having reporters of the calibre of Sarah Ferguson and Bill Birtles is a huge strength. They will tell the stories, explain the issues and analyse the impacts for our audiences across our programs and platforms.”

Ferguson is expected to depart as host of Four Corners when she takes up the role in China.

“Reporting at Four Corners has been rewarding and demanding — the program is a journalistic powerhouse,” Ferguson says. “In my 10 years many talented people have given me a huge breadth of knowledge and experience that I am grateful to take with me on this new adventure.”