Tackling misinformation and bias in journalism: New role for Kate Torney

Former ABC journalist Kate Torney has been appointed Director of the Constructive Institute Asia Pacific in the Faculty of Arts at Monash University.

Torney – the ABC’s first female Director of News – has worked across radio and TV as a producer, bureau chief, executive producer and news editor.

Based in Denmark, she will take up a Professorship of Practice in the School of Media, Film and Journalism, spearheading the charge to counter misinformation and disinformation.

Dean of the Faculty of Arts Professor Katie Stevenson says Professor Torney’s appointment builds on the University’s commitment to fostering integrity in journalism.

“Today’s media landscape is rapidly evolving and enduring constant battles of misinformation, sensationalism and negativity bias.”

“With the appointment of Professor Torney, Monash Arts is excited for the significant impact the Constructive Institute Asia Pacific will have on developing the next generation of journalists with a renewed commitment to news integrity.”

Professor Torney says “This is a rare moment in time for the media sector – a chance to deliberately be part of the solution to the polarisation and mistrust that we are seeing in so many of our institutions and democracies around the world.”

Professor Torney’s appointment follows the departure of the Constructive Institute’s inaugural Director Stan Grant. She will commence her new role in November this year.