How a Melbourne newspaper evolved from a struggling startup to a political powerhouse
In short: Founded in 1854, The Age has survived auction sales, family feuds, and shifting political tides to become a cornerstone of Australian journalism. From its early days as a liberal voice to its modern investigative crusades, the paper has shaped national discourse while navigating the turbulent transition from print to digital.
The Age began as a weekly publication in 1854, founded by John and Henry Cooke and Walter Powell. The venture initially faltered, leading to a 1856 auction where Ebenezer and David Syme took control. Under David Syme’s long tenure, which lasted until 1908, the paper became a dominant force in Victoria, championing liberal causes and protectionist economic policies. By 1890, it was one of the world's most successful newspapers, selling 100,000 copies daily.
The 20th century brought significant challenges, including a restrictive will that prevented the sale of equity, starving the paper of investment for 40 years. By the 1940s, the publication had lost its competitive edge, becoming outdated in both appearance and outlook. A 1948 court intervention allowed the paper to float as a public company, facilitating a technical upgrade and securing its future against takeover attempts. The mid-1960s marked a radical shift toward 'left liberalism' under editor Graham Perkin, who steered the paper toward social issues and away from its traditional support of the Coalition.
Today, The Age is owned by Nine Entertainment and continues its tradition of investigative reporting, which has sparked Royal Commissions into banking and corruption. Despite its prestige, the paper has faced controversies, including high-profile errors and internal leadership changes. In 2020, Gay Alcorn became the first woman to serve as editor. While its readership has fluctuated—dropping from 5.4 million in March 2020 to 4.55 million by September 2024—the paper remains a vital, if debated, institution in Australian public life.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: The Age
- Also: www.britannica.com — The Age | Melbourne, Victoria, Journalism | Britannica
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