AI and the Fourth Estate - Ethics, Integrity, and Innovation in Modern Journalism

Bringing together leading voices from journalism, law, and academia, this panel will explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the Fourth Estate. With expertise spanning editorial leadership, media law, industry innovation, and frontline reporting, our speakers will examine the ethical, legal, and professional challenges of AI — and the opportunities it presents for the future of journalism.

Louise Roberts (Moderator)
Louise Roberts is a columnist with Sky News Australia and a highly respected journalist, broadcaster and media executive. With extensive experience across newspapers, television and digital platforms, Louise has held senior editorial roles in Australia and overseas. She brings deep industry insight to her role as moderator of this important discussion.

David McCowen
David McCowen is the Director of Content, Motoring at News Corp Australia. He has led editorial teams across print and digital platforms, overseeing major coverage and strategy in one of the nation’s largest media organisations. David brings a wealth of knowledge on audience engagement and the evolving role of content in modern journalism.

Marlia Saunders
Marlia Saunders is a Partner at Thomson Geer Lawyers, specialising in media, defamation and intellectual property law. She advises leading Australian publishers and broadcasters on complex legal, ethical and reputational matters. Marlia’s expertise provides vital perspective on the legal frameworks and challenges surrounding journalism in the digital and AI era.

Professor Monica Attard OAM
Professor Monica Attard OAM is Co-Director of the Centre for Media Transition at the University of Technology Sydney. An award-winning journalist with a distinguished career at the ABC, she now leads research into the transformation of journalism and its role in a rapidly changing media environment. Monica combines academic insight with decades of frontline reporting experience.

Joe Hildebrand
Joe Hildebrand is a columnist with News Corp Australia and one of the country’s most recognisable media commentators. With a background in both print and television, Joe has built a reputation for sharp, often provocative commentary on politics, culture and society. He brings a dynamic and engaging voice to debates about the future of journalism.