Richard Aedy

Richard Aedy is one of Australia’s most respected broadcast journalists and presenters, best known as the host of ABC Radio National’s flagship morning program, Life Matters. In this role, Richard leads thoughtful, in-depth conversations with key figures shaping Australia’s social policies, spanning workplace reform, education, health, family relationships, and social change.

Renowned for his practical, down-to-earth style, Richard has an exceptional ability to make people feel at ease—even in challenging or emotionally charged situations. His natural warmth, curiosity, and skill in drawing out ideas, perspectives, and personal stories make him a highly effective MC, mediator, and speaker for corporate events, conferences, seminars, and workshop series.

Richard grew up in Sydney and Canberra before moving to New Zealand to study a Diploma of Journalism. He began his career with Independent Radio News and Radio New Zealand, before relocating to the United Kingdom. During five years based largely in London, he established himself as an award-winning program maker.

In 1988, Richard returned to Australia and joined ABC Radio National, initially as Executive Producer of Radio Science, before returning to on-air broadcasting. Over the years, he has presented and produced an extensive range of programs across science, technology, media, health, and social affairs, always bringing his trademark wit, insight, and ability to connect with audiences.

In 2001, he presented the technology program The Buzz, followed by his appointment as host of Media Report in 2005. Later that year, Richard stepped into the role of presenter of Life Matters, following the departure of Julie McCrossin, a position in which he has since become a trusted and familiar voice to Australians nationwide.

In 2004, Richard was invited to spend three months at Oxford University as the ABC’s Reuters Foundation Programme Fellow, where he authored a paper on Preventing State Failure in Papua New Guinea. This experience further deepened his understanding of international development, governance, and policy challenges.

Richard has a broad and nuanced understanding of science, technology, environmental change, health, education, media, and social issues, and is a keen observer of the political landscape. Beyond broadcasting, he brings these insights into his work as an MC and facilitator, guiding conversations with intelligence, balance, and humanity.

A father of two, Richard has a strong interest in work–life balance—an idea he considers excellent in theory. He does his best to stay fit, is frequently reminded that he does not watch enough sport, and has recently discovered that his wife maintains a growing list of jobs for him in the garden.