Rupert Murdoch: The Influential Figure Behind Australia's Media Transformation

Rupert Murdoch, a highly successful businessman, started his career by inheriting a newspaper in Adelaide from his father. With a desire for money and power, Murdoch strategically combined his passions to build an empire. However, as he nears the end of his 70-year career, his impact on Australia remains uncertain. Australia's media environment is heavily concentrated, with News Corp holding a 60% stake in the print market and facing criticism for its influence on democracy. Calls for a Royal Commission into Murdoch's influence have been led by former prime ministers, and his papers are accused of profiting off sensationalism. Murdoch's father was also involved in the newspaper industry, but debt had forced the family to sell off most of their business before Rupert took over. He successfully expanded his empire by using tabloid tactics, owning newspapers in every state and launching the nation's first national broadsheet. Murdoch's influence extends beyond newspapers to 24-hour TV journalism with the launch of Sky News Australia. This channel has faced criticism for its opinion-based programming and climate change skepticism. Murdoch's close relationships with influential politicians in the US and UK are well-documented, leading some Australian leaders to fear his power. Efforts to initiate a Royal Commission into News Corp's power have been met with resistance, and the current prime minister does not support the proposal. Despite speculation about News Corp's influence waning, experts believe that its brand and culture will remain intact. Murdoch's son, Lachlan, is expected to carry on the family legacy and maintain continuity.