Madonna King

Journalist, Author, Commentator, Speaker & MC

A highly experienced MC and facilitator, she brings insight, humour and authority to every event, engaging audiences with clarity, depth and wit. Drawing on over 20 years in newspapers, radio and television, Madonna offers audiences a fascinating, entertaining perspective on politics, leadership and current affairs.

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Madonna King is an award-winning journalist, commentator and author, recognised for her authoritative voice on current affairs in Queensland. She has written biographies of prominent community leaders including Joe Hockey and Ian Frazer and contributes regularly to Sydney Morning Herald’s Good Weekend magazine, as well as a weekly column, That Thinking Feeling, for Brisbane Times.

With extensive experience across newspapers, radio and television—including time in the Canberra press gallery and regular appearances on breakfast television—Madonna is a sought-after MC, compere and facilitator. She has addressed diverse audiences at medical conferences, legal forums, community summits, charity events, and corporate conferences, demonstrating skill in engaging and managing panels, interviews and discussions with poise and clarity.

A fellow of the World Press Institute, Madonna has served as a visiting fellow at Queensland University of Technology, been on the Walkley Advisory Board for Journalism, and holds a Diploma in Company Directorships from the Australian Institute of Company Directors. She also serves on three not-for-profit boards.

Madonna draws on her deep knowledge of media, politics and leadership to deliver keynotes and moderated discussions that are both entertaining and insightful. Whether interpreting the political landscape, exploring leadership challenges, or sharing behind-the-scenes perspectives from her years in journalism, she provides audiences with engaging, thought-provoking and memorable experiences.

Madonna conducted two hypotheticals for our local government managers’ conference in Yeppoon. They were excellent – providing serious content in an entertaining, engaging and fun way. Madonna flawlessly researched the issues, contacting all speakers beforehand, and her journalistic rigour, ability to think on the spot and dose of good humour meant the session was also full of valuable lessons. We’d certainly recommend her. LGMA
In her role as Master of Ceremonies, for the largest event on the API calendar, Madonna brings an exceptional level of professionalism and enthusiasm… I would not hesitate in referring someone to Madonna King when looking for a Master of Ceremonies. Australian Property Institute
… Madonna kept the guests entertained with stories of journalism, lightly poking fun at the powers that be, and taking us inside what happens when a big story breaks. We laughed and were spellbound. I found Madonna an absolute delight when organising the event. Thanks to Madonna the Medical Equipment required was purchased. What a wonderful person. I only wish we had a few more people like Madonna King. Betty McGrath OAM
The St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland has been delighted to work with Madonna King for our annual Vinnies CEO sleepout event over the past two years. She worked closely with our event team to deliver a professional, successful and enjoyable event. Her natural ability to engage with an audience of high level business, community and government leaders kept the night flowing, and her facilitation skills brought out the best of all the speakers. Madonna was an absolute pleasure to work with, and we look forward to working with her again. St Vincent de Paul
Madonna is a true professional. She understood our panel topic with minimal explanation, conducted thorough research and proposed an interview format which matched our brief perfectly. Her presence was well received by panel and audience members and was a key factor in the success of our event. High Distinction. QUT Faculty of Built Environment and Engineering