ABC reveals new RN Breakfast team after Karvelas announces departure

The ABC has made a major announcement about the future of one of its most longstanding shows, after its former host announced her departure.

ABC has revealed the presenter who will take on Patricia Karvelas’ role on Radio National Breakfast next year following news she’s leaving the program.

Karvelas, who replaced long-term host Fran Kelly in early 2022, last month revealed her plans to “lean into a new cross-platform role” after three years at RN Breakfast.

She will take on a new role as an anchor on the ABC’s News channel in 2025, covering national politics.

She will also host a new politics podcast but will remain host of Q+A.

Patricia Karvelas previously announced she is leaving RN Breakfast. Picture: Twitter

Sally Sara has now been announced as the program’s newest presenter.

Sara previously worked as a foreign correspondent with the ABC, travelling to Africa, Iraq, India and Afghanistan.

She said she’s “extremely grateful” for the opportunity to join the RN Breakfast team.

“I can’t wait,” Sara said.

“I will work hard to engage the audience with stories from across the country and around the world.”

Sally Sara has been announced as the new RN Breakfast host.

She previously worked as a foreign correspondent at the ABC.

Karvelas has offered her support for the move, describing Sara as a “beloved” journalist.

“Sally is one of the ABC’s most experienced journalists and beloved foreign correspondents,” Karvelas said.

“I’m so happy for the Radio National listeners, who will not only receive first class news and analysis every day but also benefit from Sally’s deep international experience at this time of great global upheaval.”

Political correspondent Melissa Clarke, business reporter Peter Ryan, and news presenter Luke Siddham Dundon will be joining Sara on the program.

ABC News Director Justin Stevens said Sara will “continue a great tradition” following Karvelas’ departure from the program.

“Sally Sara is a hugely experienced journalist and broadcaster and it’s wonderful to welcome her to this key role on Radio National Breakfast,” Clarke said.

“Patricia Karvelas has contributed enormously in this role, following on from Fran Kelly’s 17 years with the program, and Sally will continue a great tradition.

“Sally Sara, Peter Ryan, Melissa Clarke and Luke Siddham Dundon make a formidable team who will bring great expertise and insights to audiences and be part of setting the national agenda every day.”

Sara is set to present Summer Breakfast between December 16 and January 3 before beginning her new role alongside Ryan, Clarke and Dundon at 5:30am on January 20.