In an era where political noise often overwhelms genuine clarity, Jacob Greber has emerged as one of Australia’s most trusted interpreters of federal politics, economic policy and global affairs. Known for his calm tone, analytical reporting and long-standing experience across continents, he now serves as the political editor of the ABC’s flagship program 7.30. His journey spans almost 30 years across state politics, financial journalism, international reporting and national commentary.
This in-depth blog explores the career of Jacob Greber, the foundations of his work, his influence on public debate, his background in economic reporting, and why he has become one of the most respected voices in Australian journalism today.
Early Life & Career Foundations of Jacob Greber
How Jacob Greber Began in the Canberra Press Gallery
The story of Jacob Greber begins in the heart of Australia’s political machinery — the Canberra press gallery. He started as a copyboy, a role often described as the most junior rung of the newsroom ladder. But this position placed him exactly where the nation’s most important political news was being shaped, delivered and dissected every day.
As a copyboy, he observed the workings of political journalism from the inside: budget lock-ups, press conferences, committee hearings, leadership tension, backroom negotiations and the chaos of election cycles. These early years helped him understand the mechanics of political storytelling and allowed him to develop the instincts that would later define his reporting style.
Jacob Greber Reporting for The Courier-Mail
After mastering the basics of parliamentary news, Jacob Greber moved to Brisbane to cover Queensland state politics for The Courier-Mail. This role placed him directly into the heart of state-level decision-making: budget pressures, infrastructure battles, law-and-order debates, public-service reforms and party infighting.
His time at The Courier-Mail sharpened his ability to simplify complex political topics for a general audience. More importantly, it grounded him in the real-world consequences of policy decisions — an approach that continues to define his work today on the ABC.
International Reporting-The Global Career of Jacob Greber
Jacob Greber’s Switzerland Years & European Financial Reporting
A significant chapter in Jacob Greber’s career unfolded in Switzerland, where he lived for several years. In the country known for its banks, international finance and global corporate headquarters, he covered major developments in European economics, multinational restructuring, job losses, regulatory shifts and global banking policy.
Working with Swiss and European outlets, he reported on industries undergoing massive change — especially during the early 2000s when globalisation was reshaping corporate operations and financial markets. This period equipped him with a deep understanding of economic systems, cross-border trade flows, outsourcing trends and the role of large banks in international markets.
These years in Europe helped Jacob Greber develop a global lens that continues to shape his political commentary in Australia today.
Reporting from Washington DC-Jacob Greber’s US Journey
Later in his career, Jacob Greber relocated to Washington DC as a correspondent. This role required him to analyse the inner workings of the US government, covering issues such such as:
- America’s shifting trade and tariff policies
- Tensions between the White House and traditional allies
- Federal Reserve interest-rate decisions
- Political gridlock in Congress
- Major global events reshaping international markets
- Early economic responses to global crises
During this time, he examined the US political economy with a focus on how American decisions influenced Australia’s markets, strategic alliances and local households. His Washington reporting strengthened his ability to connect international developments to domestic consequences — a skill that sets him apart from many Australian journalists.
Jacob Greber at The Australian Financial Review
The Economics Specialist
After returning to Australia, Jacob Greber joined The Australian Financial Review (AFR), where he built a reputation as one of the country’s most skilled economics correspondents. He covered federal budgets, productivity challenges, tax reform debates, business confidence, labour-market shifts, trade relations, and emerging risks affecting Australian living standards.
At the AFR, he became known for:
- Breaking down complex budget papers into accessible analysis
- Linking economic forecasts to the lived experience of families
- Identifying structural challenges affecting Australia’s long-term growth
- Highlighting international economic pressures shaping policy
His articles frequently focused on issues such as tax reform, demographic shifts, industry transitions, energy costs and global competitiveness. This period firmly established Jacob Greber as a leading interpreter of economic and political intersections.
Senior Correspondent-Bridging Politics & Markets
Over time, Jacob Greber expanded into a senior correspondent role, where he analysed the broader political implications of economic policy. He provided deep insights into how government decisions around spending, taxation, regulation and trade influenced business investment and household financial pressure.
This combination of economics and political journalism is what many now identify as his special strength. Few reporters can explain the economic significance of a political announcement with the same clarity and authority.
Joining ABC News-Jacob Greber’s Digital Political Leadership
Chief Digital Political Correspondent at ABC
In mid-2024, Jacob Greber joined ABC News as chief digital political correspondent. This position placed him at the heart of the ABC’s online political output during a time when more Australians rely on digital platforms for daily news.
His work included:
- Writing long-form political explainers
- Breaking down complex reforms
- Analysing election campaigns
- Providing data-backed policy commentary
- Appearing across ABC TV, radio and podcasts
- Creating digital-first video analysis for social platforms
His role demonstrated the ABC’s confidence in his ability to communicate with a modern audience — one that demands accuracy, context and accessible explanations, not just headlines.
Jacob Greber Becomes Political Editor of 7.30
A Major Appointment in Australian Journalism
In 2025, Jacob Greber was appointed political editor of 7.30, replacing Laura Tingle, who moved into a global affairs role. His appointment was seen as significant due to the program’s national influence and its role in shaping the nightly political conversation.
Becoming 7.30’s political editor is a milestone for any journalist, as the program remains one of Australia’s most-watched and trusted sources of investigative reporting and political analysis.
Jacob Greber’s Vision for the Role
Upon taking the position, Jacob Greber emphasised the importance of clarity during complex political periods. He has openly stated that audiences “rightly expect insight and explanation,” highlighting his commitment to delivering journalism that both informs and guides public understanding.
His philosophy aligns with the ABC’s mission of public service journalism: offering context, accuracy and relevance.
What Jacob Greber Does on 7.30
As political editor, he:
- Leads political coverage and nightly analysis
- Produces in-depth segments explaining federal decisions
- Conducts interviews with political leaders
- Develops story frameworks for the program
- Collaborates with producers on investigative themes
- Coordinates digital stories aligned with broadcast material
- Appears on related programs like Insiders and political podcasts
His on-air presence reflects his editorial voice: measured, thoughtful and focused on consequences rather than theatrics.
Reporting Style of Jacob Greber
Analytical, Not Reactive
The trademark of Jacob Greber’s journalism is the ability to explain the “why” behind political events:
- Why is a policy introduced?
- Why is a party shifting its position?
- Why are economic reforms delayed?
- Why do global trends influence local decisions?
This explanatory style has been shaped by his decades of reporting across Australia, Europe and the United States.
Connecting Global Trends to Local Impact
A signature element of Jacob Greber’s reporting is his ability to connect international events to Australian households. Whether discussing global growth forecasts, interest-rate trends, geopolitical tensions or commodity markets, he brings global context home to local audiences.
Focus on Consequences, Not Drama
While political gossip often dominates headlines, Jacob Greber typically centres his reporting on outcomes:
- What does a new policy mean for working families?
- How will this affect wages, mortgages or energy bills?
- What will businesses face under new regulations?
- How will regional communities respond?
This practical lens resonates strongly with viewers who want journalism that affects their real lives.
Major Themes in Jacob Greber’s Coverage
Tax Reform & Australia’s Economic Future
Throughout his career, Jacob Greber has frequently reported on the need for modernised tax settings, long-term budget sustainability and the pressures created by an ageing population.
He often frames tax reform as a question of national living standards rather than political rivalry — a perspective valued by economists, policymakers and business leaders.
Climate Policy & Political Tension
Another of Jacob Greber’s major beats has been climate policy. He has covered everything from internal party debates to national emissions targets and energy-market tensions.
His reporting in this area often highlights:
- Business concerns about policy uncertainty
- Regional job transitions
- Internal friction within major parties
- The real-world cost of delayed reform
Cost-of-Living Pressures
In recent years, Jacob Greber has focused heavily on topics such as inflation, wage stagnation, energy bills and rising mortgage stress. His reports often connect these economic realities to political performance, voter sentiment and upcoming elections.
Environmental Law & Regulation
He has also investigated proposed changes to environmental protection laws, exploring how they affect industry, conservation groups and political debate.
Jacob Greber on TV, Podcasts & Digital Platforms
Regular Insiders Panellist
Jacob Greber regularly appears on the ABC’s flagship political panel show Insiders, where he breaks down the week’s major issues and debates policy developments with other leading journalists.
His appearances are valued for their clarity and factual grounding.
Podcast Contributions
He also contributes to political podcasts such as Politics Now, offering deeper analysis in conversational formats that appeal to younger and digital-first audiences.
Digital-First Reporting
Through ABC News’ digital platforms, he produces:
- Video explainers
- Election breakdowns
- Policy deep dives
- Social media summaries
This multi-platform presence strengthens his reach across age groups and demographics.
Why Jacob Greber Matters in Australian Journalism
Three Decades of Experience
With nearly 30 years in the field, Jacob Greber brings unmatched perspective, having reported on:
- State and federal politics
- Global financial markets
- US political economy
- European corporate shifts
- Domestic policy transformations
Economic Expertise
Few political editors have the same depth in economics. This allows him to report on budgets, interest rates and global markets with authority.
Trusted Public Communicator
His reporting is widely trusted for its:
- Accuracy
- Clarity
- Audience-first approach
- Avoidance of unnecessary drama
- Practical focus
Multi-Platform Storytelling
From broadcast TV to digital articles and podcasts, Jacob Greber reaches audiences wherever they consume news.
Commitment to Insight
Above all, he consistently delivers journalism that explains, not just reports — something Australians increasingly value.
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