Michael Rowland

Journalist, News Presenter & Author

A veteran journalist and broadcaster with over 30 years’ experience covering politics, economics, and global events. Known for his sharp insight, compelling storytelling, and ability to make complex issues accessible, he captivates audiences with the human stories behind the headlines and the lessons they offer for leadership, resilience, and community.

Quick Contact


Michael Rowland is a distinguished Australian journalist and broadcaster with a career spanning more than three decades. Beginning as a news cadet in the ABC’s Parliament House bureau, he reported on state and federal politics before moving into business and finance journalism. He has been a correspondent for ABC across multiple platforms, including AM, PM, Lateline, The World Today, Inside Business, and the 7 pm TV news, covering Australian economics, business, and current affairs.

Michael’s international experience includes serving as ABC’s North America correspondent, reporting on major global events such as the election of Barack Obama, the 2008 financial crisis, the Virginia Tech massacre, and the release of David Hicks from Guantanamo Bay. In June 2010, he became co-host of News Breakfast, later taking on the expanded role of senior network presenter, anchoring coverage of major domestic and international events across ABC News programs. In 2025 Michael became the 7.30 National Affairs Reporter with the ABC.

An accomplished author, Michael edited Black Summer: Stories of Loss, Courage and Community from the 2019–2020 Bushfires, with proceeds supporting the Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund. Recognised for his professionalism, insight, and integrity, he is a life member of the Melbourne Press Club. Michael continues to inform and inspire audiences through journalism, public speaking, and advocacy.

Michael was professional and struck the perfect balance between humour, warmth and respect to the finalists who were being recognised. HESTA Super Fund
I commend Michael Rowland for his exceptional skills as a public speaker and event master of ceremonies. Michael is a senior member of the committee of the Melbourne Press Club and plays a key role in the management and presentation of the Club's busy events program. He has been MC at a series of big Club events in the past year including a dinner to inaugurate the Victorian Media Hall of Fame, attended by top media industry figures including Lachland Murdoch, Eddige Maguire, Kim Williams and Harold Mitchell. In March he was MC at our annual Quill Awards dinner at Crown Palladium, attended by 600 media leaders and celebrities. Michael's great skills as an ABC presenter are evident in the style he brings to hosting public events. He is eloquent, charming and funny. Melbourne Press Club