In the dynamic landscape of Australian media, few journalists have navigated the complexities of national and international reporting with the poise and integrity of Isabella Higgins. As a proud Torres Strait Islander woman, Higgins has carved out a path that is not only distinguished by its professional rigor but also by a deep-seated commitment to elevating the voices of those often sidelined in mainstream discourse.
As we look at the media landscape in 2026, Higgins stands as a central figure in Australian current affairs, having stepped into the host’s chair of ABC Radio’s flagship program, AM. Her journey from regional newsrooms to the heart of the national agenda is a testament to the power of persistence, curiosity, and the essential role of public interest journalism.
Isabella Higgins: Early Beginnings and Career Foundations
Higgins’ path into journalism began with a clear purpose: a desire to merge her passion for reading and writing into a career that could shape public understanding. Joining the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) in 2014, she cut her teeth in regional and metropolitan newsrooms, covering everything from local developments to significant national constitutional debates.
This foundational period was crucial. Working across television, radio, and digital platforms, Higgins developed the versatile skill set that would eventually make her one of the most reliable and recognizable reporters in the country. Her early work demonstrated a unique ability to find the human story within complex bureaucratic structures, a trait that would come to define her reporting in later years.
Isabella Higgins: Notable Career Milestones
Throughout her career, Higgins has consistently demonstrated an ability to handle high-pressure environments with grace. Her reporting has taken her across the globe, bringing international perspectives to an Australian audience while remaining deeply connected to domestic issues.
- National Indigenous Affairs Correspondent: In this role, Higgins traveled across Australia, focusing on urgent community issues. Her detailed, sensitive coverage of the First Nations suicide crisis earned her the 2019 Walkley Award for Young Australian Journalist of the Year.
- Europe Correspondent: Based in London from 2021 to 2024, she provided critical reporting on monumental events, including the war in Ukraine, the death of Queen Elizabeth II, the shifting tides of British politics, and multiple international conflicts.
- Reporting on the Voice Referendum: Higgins played a senior role in covering the Voice referendum, lending her expertise to one of the most significant domestic political moments in recent Australian history.
- Presenting AM: As of 2026, Higgins is the host of the ABC’s AM program, a role that cements her status as a premier voice in Australian audio current affairs.
Isabella Higgins: Style and Journalistic Approach
What distinguishes Higgins in a crowded media market is her “ground truth” philosophy. In an era where desk-based reporting is increasingly common, she has prioritized being on the ground—whether it is a remote community in Australia or the frontlines of a conflict zone in Europe.
- Elevating Voices: Her work is characterized by a commitment to elevating the voices of those directly impacted by events, particularly women in conflict zones and First Nations communities.
- Clarity in Complexity: Higgins excels at stripping away political jargon to focus on the tangible impacts of policy on everyday lives.
- Adaptability: Her ability to transition seamlessly between regional, national, and international reporting shows a rare journalistic flexibility.
Current Role and Outlook (2026)
As of 2026, Higgins occupies the role of presenter for AM, taking over from the formidable Sabra Lane. This appointment is a recognition of her career-long dedication to the craft of journalism. Her role now involves setting the nation’s daily news agenda, a responsibility she describes as a privilege.
As we look to the future, Higgins is poised to continue influencing the direction of Australian media. In a time when the media industry faces questions about balancing ratings with quality, her career serves as a model for how high-impact journalism can remain essential, engaging, and trusted.
Conclusion
Isabella Higgins’ career is a powerful example of the impact one journalist can have when they combine technical skill with genuine empathy. By consistently bringing light to stories that matter, from the atrocities of war to the struggles of her own community, she has not only earned professional accolades but also the trust of the Australian public.
For aspiring journalists and media consumers alike, her journey serves as a reminder that the best reporting comes from a place of integrity, rigorous research, and a deep respect for the people behind the headlines. As she continues to lead the conversation on AM, Higgins remains a pivotal force in the future of Australian storytelling.
