Nine is Australia’s largest locally owned media company. We are home to premium, trusted news, sport and entertainment. Nine's assets span free-to-air television, free and paid streaming, publishing and digital audio, and digital outdoor and retail media. Our content reaches almost every Australian - meaning what we do has real impact. We bring people together, celebrate the big moments, and capture the everyday ones. As our iconic and emerging brands continue to evolve, we offer unique opportunities for you to bring fresh ideas, innovate, and make your mark on the future of Australian media.
As Australia’s most widely read masthead and number one news brand, Sydney Morning Herald is proudly committed to fearless, independent, and accurate journalism. Reaching millions each month across print and digital platforms, our newsroom offers unparalleled opportunities to contribute to a storied legacy, shape national conversations, and drive impact in the media industry.
Job Description
The Sydney Morning Herald is seeking trainees for our Sydney newsroom who are passionate about a career in journalism. The traineeship program is a rare opportunity for aspiring and early career journalists to hone their craft alongside award-winning reporters and editors, with a strong focus on developing breaking news skills.
We are looking for sharp, curious individuals with exceptional writing skills, strong news judgment and a genuine passion for Herald journalism. We encourage candidates with skills in breaking news, data journalism, multimedia production and visual storytelling to apply.
These positions are 12-month full-time fixed-term contracts commencing in February 2027, with the potential to secure a permanent role at the end of the contract. Trainees participate in a rotating shift roster that includes evening and weekend shifts.
Day-to-day you will:
- Break high-impact news stories and build core reporting skills while working to deadlines.
- Produce dynamic, multi-platform journalism, including written coverage, video content, data visuals and more.
- Receive one-on-one mentoring and daily feedback from senior editors and experienced reporters.
What you’ll bring:
- Ability to generate story ideas including identifying news angles.
- Understanding of news issues and current affairs.
- Exceptional writing skills and the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Collaborative mindset with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work independently.
- Tertiary qualifications are preferred but not essential. These qualifications are not limited to journalism, media or communications studies - we encourage individuals with an aptitude for journalism and a portfolio of written work to apply.
- Some newsroom experience will be well regarded.
To apply for a traineeship, you must submit the following:
- A resume outlining your qualifications and media experience.
- A cover letter outlining your interest in a Herald traineeship that includes:
* Links to three published work samples (including at least one written piece). Examples from other media sites, local publications, student media, blogs, audio/video projects are welcomed.
* A short pitch (max 250 words) detailing an original news story idea you would love to cover for The Sydney Morning Herald and how you would execute it across digital platforms.
We want to get to know your unique voice and journalistic instinct. Please ensure your cover letter and story pitch are original, written by you, and expressed in your own words.
Please ensure all of your application materials are attached as one PDF document.
Applications close at 11:59 PM AEST on Sunday 18 October 2026. The 2027 Traineeship Program will officially commence in February 2027.
Additional Information
How we work
At Nine, our flexible work options vary by role and team. Depending on the position, this may include flexible hours, hybrid work, or part-time arrangements. We welcome discussing your flexibility needs during the hiring process - just ask the Talent Acquisition team.
Our employee benefits include:
Nine offers a variety of benefits and perks to support you. Learn more about our full benefits offering here: https://ninecareers.com.au/benefits-and-how-we-work/
Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
We're committed to a safe, respectful and inclusive Nine. From day one, you'll be encouraged to bring your whole self to work and will be supported to perform at your best.
We encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, and of all ages, genders, nationalities, backgrounds and cultures as we recognise the importance and value of diverse perspectives. Should you require any adjustments to the recruitment process, please advise us when you apply.
Work rights: Please note to apply for this role you must already have the right to lawfully work and live in Australia.
Skills Required
- Exceptional writing skills
- Strong news judgment and ability to generate original story ideas
- Understanding of news issues and current affairs
- Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
- Collaborative mindset and strong interpersonal skills
- Ability to work independently
- Portfolio including three published work samples, with at least one written piece
- Tertiary qualifications
- Newsroom experience
- Existing legal right to live and work in Australia
What We Do
Nine is Australia's largest locally owned media company, operating across television, video-on-demand, print, digital and outdoor media. It creates and curates news, business, finance, lifestyle, entertainment and sports content for audiences across broadcast, online and subscription platforms. Its portfolio includes the 9Network, major Australian newspapers, nine.com.au, Drive, streaming service Stan and digital-out-of-home advertising business QMS, while connecting brands with consumers through integrated media solutions.
