Winner: Adele Ferguson and Chris Gillett, ABC 7.30, “Affinity Exposed”

Judges’ Citation:

This investigation by Adele Ferguson and Chris Gillett will send a chill down the spine of any parent. The reporting, supported by patient forensic research, exposes a childcare sector in crisis where profit is prioritised over safety, regulation is toothless, and vulnerable children are at risk of being harmed across one of Australia's biggest providers. Underpinning the investigation is sickening footage that has been used carefully, not sensationally, in order to bring this important story to life. Outstanding journalism shines a light into uncomfortable areas and ultimately becomes a catalyst for change. This is journalism with impact and it is profoundly important. Childcare is not only critical for young families trying to balance work and life; a well-run system is essential for any modern economy. All parents deserve to have confidence in private childcare. That is why exceptional stories like this one matter.

Highly Commended

Nick McKenzie, Sarah Danckert and Amelia Ballinger, The Age, “‘Nobody’s stopping it’: The taxpayer money trail from building sites to the underworld”

Shortlisted

Shane Wright and Millie Muroi, The Age, “Overgoverned, overtaxed and overcomplicated: How Australia was set up to fail”

Cliona O’Dowd, The Australian, “Falcon Capital’s David Anderson: The man behind the $450m First Guardian collapse”