Aussie journalism veteran Matt Peacock dies after decades-long career with the ABC

Veteran ABC journalist Matt Peacock has died, aged 72, after he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, colleagues revealed on Thursday.

Peacock had a decades-long career with the national broadcaster, starting with a cadetship in the 1970s.

His career took Peacock to Canberra as chief political correspondent for current affairs radio, and then to London, Washington and New York as a foreign correspondent.

His work focussed on politics, the environment and science, also exposing James Hardie Industries for the cover-up of thousands of asbestos-related deaths. He also campaigned against censorship and defended the First Nations rights and those of the incarcerated.

ABC chair Kim Williams shared his condolences, describing Peacock as a trusted and beloved journalist.

“Since starting at the ABC as a cadet in 1973, he was dedicated to pursuing the health impacts of asbestos in different communities, defending the marginalised and giving a voice to people who needed their story to be told,” Williams said.

“Our audiences trusted him and knew him as a courageous and principled journalist who pursued those who hid from their responsibilities.

“He loved the ABC and believed in its integrity and standards, and he urged his colleagues to uphold these values without compromise.

“We will miss his friendship and advice. Our sincere condolences go to his family and friends.”

Fellow media personalities also paid tribute to Peacock.

Journalist and author Quentin Dempster tweeted on Thursday that Peacock passed away at Royal North Shore Hospital, leaving a “profound legacy, saving countless lives”.

Aussie author, academic and community leader Everald Compton, who was interviewed by Peacock “often”, also gave his condolences.

“Vale Matt Peacock. Quality journalist. One of the best ABC has had,” Compton wrote on X.

Journalist, researcher and activist Wendy Bacon wrote on X: “So sad to see Matt Peacock go.

“I knew him for more than 50 years. Very good ABC News reporter but should also be remembered as a fierce anti-censorship campaigner and defender of prisoners’ rights and Indigenous Australian. Generous friend to many.”

Fans of Peacock and his work also shared their tributes for the journalism great online.

“Very sorry Matt Peacock’s gone. He did a lot to hold asbestos manufacturers to account; so very grateful for his work on that,” one person wrote on X.

“A giant of journalism,” another wrote.