Telum Media spoke with Nadia Daly, National Business Reporter for ABC News, about how she kickstarted her business journalism career and the major issues affecting the industry today.

What prompted your entry into business reporting?
One of my first jobs in TV was writing for a business-tech show on CNN. I’ve since reported on live breaking news and long-form current affairs for the ABC, so this seemed like a natural progression. I get to work on in-depth investigative features alongside daily national news - a rare opportunity in the journalism world.

What sets the business sector apart, and what aspects do you find particularly appealing about covering it?
I love this corner of journalism because it impacts everyone’s lives - from interest rates, house prices, the cost of groceries and rent to industry trends and technological advances. The trick is making it relevant to everyone without getting caught up in industry jargon.

Could you recount some of the most memorable stories from your career?
Many of them would be from my time reporting in the Northern Territory - flying in a Black Hawk helicopter, hopping aboard a ginormous U.S. Navy ship, visiting some of the remotest First Nations communities in the country, following (rather closely) a crocodile ranger, spending 24 hours in an ice rehab facility. And since then, so many more - natural disasters, summits with world leaders and many heartwarming chats with everyday people who shared their stories. That’s the best thing about the job - the adventures it takes you on, and the people you get to meet.

What are the most pressing issues currently influencing the Australian business landscape?
Without a doubt, the cost of living and the battle to tame inflation which is impacting everything from the prices of food, and housing to healthcare and other essential services. It’s having a big impact on people’s lives.

How do you see the role of journalism evolving within the business and finance sector?
Much like the rest of the industry, business and finance reporters on our team are increasingly multi-platform and multi-skilled. We have a nightly TV programme, often filing for the 7pm state TV news and live television, writing and producing digital stories for the website, filing radio news, and increasingly making bespoke content for social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. We also launched a live markets blog that posts short updates on financial markets and the business world in real time throughout the day.

What would your ideal business story pitch look like?
The shorter and more to the point, the better. Think about what the journalist wants, not what your client wants.