Sarah Macdonald returns to ABC radio after being sacked in 2024

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, October 8, 2026

Sarah Macdonald will return to ABC Sydney radio in March to host the afternoons program, replacing the late James Valentine who recently passed away. Her comeback responds to strong listener demand and signals a shift in the ABC's programming approach after her controversial dismissal two years ago.

Sarah Macdonald is set to return to ABC Sydney radio two years after her unexpected dismissal, taking over the afternoons program from March. The broadcaster will succeed the late James Valentine, who passed away in April, shortly after retiring from the role he held for 25 years.

ABC director of audio Ben Latimer announced Macdonald’s reinstatement on Wednesday, noting strong listener demand for her return. “We’ve heard just how much 702 ABC Sydney listeners have missed Sarah, and I’m delighted she has agreed to return,” Latimer said. He added that Macdonald’s familiarity with the audience and deep understanding of the program would help her make the afternoons slot her own.

Macdonald’s departure from the ABC in November 2024 sparked widespread surprise and criticism. At the time, she announced on air that her contract would not be renewed, despite rising ratings and a series of notable interviews and coverage. “I am proud of what I’ve done,” she said then, highlighting achievements such as securing the first interview with the new governor-general, regularly featuring the New South Wales premier taking calls, leading election coverage, and overseeing the move to the Parramatta studios.

The decision to remove Macdonald drew strong reactions from colleagues and listeners alike. Media commentator Paul Barry described her exit as incomprehensible, calling her “one of the best things on radio.” Richard Glover, a Drive presenter at the time, characterised the ABC staff’s response as “shell-shocked” and expressed disbelief over management’s choice not to renew her contract.

Macdonald revealed that she was contacted by ABC managing director Hugh Marks via text message on April 1, inviting her to discuss a potential return. “I have missed the ABC listeners’ wit and wisdom,” she said following the announcement. “I thank them for their support, and I look forward to hanging out again. I will do my best to inform, entertain and be with listeners as we together try to make sense of the big and the small issues in life.”

Her appointment also slightly alters the gender dynamics of the ABC Sydney daytime lineup, which had become all-male between breakfast and 6 p.m. after the replacement of Chris Bath by Thomas Oriti in the Drive slot.

Macdonald’s return marks a notable reversal for the ABC, underscoring ongoing changes within the broadcaster’s programming strategy and audience engagement.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.