The Drum (TV program)
| Company type | Television program |
|---|---|
| Industry | News and current affairs |
| Founded | 2010 |
| Defunct | 2023 |
| Headquarters | Sydney , Australia |
Area served | Australia, Asia/Pacific region |
Key people | Julia Baird, Ellen Fanning, Dan Bourchier, Eliza Harvey (executive producer) |
| Products | Nightly current affairs television program |
The Drum was an Australian nightly program focusing on current affairs and news analysis, presented by Julia Baird, Ellen Fanning, and Dan Bourchier from its inception in 2010 until it was discontinued in 2023. Prior to its cancellation, the show was broadcast on weekdays at 6:00 pm on ABC TV and subsequently at 9:00 pm AEDT on the ABC News Channel.
Originating live from ABC's Sydney studios, The Drum assembled a panel of specialists and commentators who deliberated on significant Australian topics. The program was also accessible via streaming on iview and reached audiences in over 40 countries throughout the Asia/Pacific region through ABC Australia.
History
Debuting in 2010 alongside the launch of ABC's 24-hour news service, The Drum initially existed as a website-based format. By May 2014, it transitioned to ABC’s main channel with an updated presentation—a 30-minute slot at 5:30 pm.
In January 2019, the show underwent a relaunch featuring an extended one-hour duration at the prominent 6 pm timeslot, preceding ABC’s flagship news bulletin to better compete with commercial networks. This revamp introduced a new studio design and visual identity intended to strengthen its competitive position.
Former presenters included Annabel Crabb, Chris Uhlmann, Hamish Macdonald, Fran Kelly, Peter van Onselen, Steve Cannane, Stan Grant, and John Barron. Additionally, a lighter summer edition aired each January, hosted by Adam Spencer.
In December 2022, Eliza Harvey assumed the role of executive producer. The program’s cancellation was announced on 12 December 2023 by ABC Managing Director Justin Stevens, with the final broadcast taking place on 15 December as part of a restructuring of the ABC News Channel.
See also
- List of Australian television series
- List of programs broadcast by ABC (Australian TV network)
- List of longest-running Australian television series