WTF – Journalist and Newsreader Tom Steinfort.

Tom Steinfort’s journey in journalism is a story of dedication, perseverance, and evolution. In a chat with Marty and Shura on the latest ‘With the Fox’ podcast, he described how he’s been able to forge a career that has spanned over two decades and seen him grow from a young reporter into one of Australia’s most recognisable and respected news faces. The following is an overview of the topics discussed on the day and the fascinating life Tom has lived so far.

Early Days and Humble Beginnings

Growing up in Melbourne, Tom was no stranger to the nightly news. Like many Australians, he recalls tuning in at six o’clock to watch the familiar faces of Brian Naylor or Peter Hitchener. For Steinfort, after cutting his teeth as a cadet in Ballarat, stepping into the newsroom at Channel 9 in Richmond felt surreal. “It was such a great place to work,” he reflects. “You could feel the history in every wall.” Walking in those doors for the first time, he describes feeling like he was entering a place of legendary status, with the stars of the industry plastered on the walls and the newsroom buzzing with energy.

Climbing the Ranks and Facing the Spotlight

Over the years, Steinfort experienced firsthand the transformation from a young reporter to a household name. His early days included walking into the makeup room, where he rubbed shoulders with media icons like Eddie McGuire and Daryl Somers, feeling like a kid just starting out. “You do it for so long and go through all these stages,” he says, “that once you get to this point, it just feels like the logical next step.”

In 2019, Steinfort took on a new challenge as the newsreader on the revamped Today Show, marking his debut in a full-time, high-profile role. Though initially uncertain about whether he was ready, he approached the position with humility and determination. The experience underscored the intense pressure of live television, especially on a show that runs for hours every morning.

A Global Reporter with Unforgettable Moments

Steinfort’s career has taken him across the globe, covering some of the most significant and dangerous stories firsthand. He has reported from North Korea, an experience that was both tense and eye-opening. His on-the-ground coverage from the secretive state offered Australians a rare glimpse into a world rarely seen by outsiders.

He’s also been in courtrooms with high-profile figures like Oscar Pistorius, the South African Olympian convicted of murder, witnessing the legal proceedings up close and delivering vital insights to viewers. His interviews with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during the ongoing conflict have marked some of the most significant moments of his career, bringing international events straight into Australian living rooms.
But it hasn’t all been smooth sailing. Steinfort has faced life-threatening situations, including near-death experiences during earthquakes. On two separate occasions, he was caught in seismic events that could have turned tragic, yet his resilience and professionalism saw him continue reporting under extreme conditions.

Transition to Channel 9 News Melbourne

Today, Steinfort is the face of Channel 9 News in Melbourne, anchoring the nightly bulletin with a relaxed yet professional style. His journey to this position was not without hurdles, particularly during a difficult period when the Today Show faced negativity and internal challenges. He recalls how the show’s struggles created a stressful environment, but his move back to Melbourne felt right — especially since it meant returning home to his roots.
His chemistry with co-anchor Alicia has been a key factor in the show’s resurgence. “From day one, Alicia and I have always got along well,” he shares. Their camaraderie is evident on screen, and Steinfort notes how positive relationships foster a more relaxed atmosphere, which resonates with viewers. “When there’s positivity around, you relax into it, and the show works.”

A Balancing Act: Delivering News with Humanity

Steinfort’s approach to newsreading reflects his personality — lighthearted, humorous, and relatable. He emphasises the importance of balancing the weight of heavy news with a delivery style that feels authentic and human. “The best delivery is like you’re sitting at a pub with your mate,” he explains, describing how his relaxed style helps make difficult topics more approachable.
He also acknowledges the emotional toll of reporting on tragedies and sensitive issues, highlighting that he learned early on to communicate in a way that feels genuine and relatable. His philosophy is simple: talk to viewers like friends, sharing the news without losing sight of the seriousness, but with a touch of warmth.

Looking Ahead

With over twenty years in the industry, Steinfort is optimistic about what’s next. His career trajectory demonstrates that perseverance and authenticity are key to longevity in journalism. As he continues to anchor in Melbourne, he remains committed to delivering news that informs, engages, and resonates with the Australian public.

To listen to the whole podcast click here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3ABzORFVylyVYZwelm15tV?si=138ac39273ae4453 or watch here: https://youtu.be/K6kud8EYKSQ?si=F_2Fbyc0qXnvCKyG

Follow Tom on instagram @tomsteinfort.