Births on January 17

Ita Buttrose, Australian journalist and author

Ita Clare Buttrose: An Icon of Australian Media

Ita Clare Buttrose, born on 17 January 1942, stands as a prominent figure in Australian media, celebrated for her multifaceted career as a pioneering journalist, astute businesswoman, engaging television personality, and prolific author. Her profound influence has indelibly shaped the landscape of Australian print and broadcast media over several decades.

Revolutionizing Print: From Cleo to The Australian Women's Weekly

A cornerstone of Buttrose's innovative career began with her role as the founding editor of Cleo magazine. Launched in 1972, Cleo quickly garnered a high circulation, specifically targeting women aged 20 to 40. Under Buttrose's audacious vision, Cleo was revolutionary for its frank and open discussions on sexuality and relationships, a significant departure from the more conservative publications of its era. Famously, in its early years, Cleo broke social barriers by featuring nude male centrefolds, a move that sparked widespread public discussion and challenged traditional norms, thereby redefining women's magazines and empowering a new generation of readers.

Following her groundbreaking success at Cleo, Buttrose transitioned to become the editor of the more established and conventional The Australian Women's Weekly. Appointed in 1975, she made history as the youngest person ever to be named editor of this iconic publication. At that time, The Weekly held an extraordinary global distinction: it was, on a per capita basis, the largest-selling magazine in the world. This unparalleled circulation underscored its immense influence and ubiquitous presence within Australian households, a clear testament to Buttrose's exceptional editorial acumen and leadership.

From Print to Screen: A Respected Media Voice

Beyond her extensive work in print media, Ita Buttrose cultivated a strong presence on Australian television, becoming a widely recognized and respected personality. From 2013 to 2018, she served as a popular and insightful panelist on Network Ten's morning program, Studio 10. Her candid commentary and engaging on-screen demeanor made her a beloved figure, bringing her unique perspective to daily discussions on current affairs, lifestyle topics, and social issues.

Leading the National Broadcaster: Chair of the ABC

A pivotal moment in Buttrose's illustrious career occurred in 2019 when then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced her appointment as the new Chair of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). As the head of Australia's national public broadcaster, a role of immense national importance and responsibility, this position solidified her standing as one of Australia's most trusted and influential media figures. Her appointment came at a crucial time for the ABC, highlighting the government's confidence in her leadership, extensive experience, and unwavering commitment to public service broadcasting amidst a complex and evolving media landscape.

A Legacy of Innovation and Influence

Ita Buttrose's career is marked by a consistent commitment to innovation, strong leadership, and a desire to shape public discourse. From challenging social norms with the revolutionary Cleo to steering the national public broadcaster, she has consistently been at the forefront of Australian media, championing diverse voices and delivering relevant, impactful content. Her enduring legacy continues to inspire aspiring journalists, media professionals, and leaders across the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ita Buttrose

• When was Ita Buttrose born?
  Ita Clare Buttrose was born on 17 January 1942.
• What was significant about her role at Cleo magazine?
  As the founding editor of Cleo (launched in 1972), she revolutionized women's magazines in Australia by openly discussing sexuality and famously featuring nude male centrefolds, making it a groundbreaking and influential publication for its time.
• What made her appointment at The Australian Women's Weekly noteworthy?
  She became the youngest editor of The Australian Women's Weekly in 1975. At that time, it was reputedly the largest-selling magazine globally on a per capita basis, reflecting its extraordinary reach and cultural significance in Australia.
• When did she become Chair of the ABC?
  Ita Buttrose was appointed as the Chair of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) in 2019 by then-Prime Minister Scott Morrison.