‘The public deserve free TV’: Stokes goes out swinging after almost 50 years

‘The public deserve free TV’: Stokes reflects on nearly 50 years in media

Australia's last media mogul, Kerry Stokes, is preparing to step away from his role as chairman of Seven West Media early next year after nearly five decades. Despite this, the 85-year-old insists his advocacy for free television will continue.

Final Annual General Meeting Highlights

During his last AGM at Seven, Stokes criticized streaming platforms like Netflix for their tax practices, highlighting the impact on the Australian media landscape.

“They’ve taken out last year some $6 billion in revenue. They take the advertising and there’s no tax on it. And these people will go on until there’s nothing left,”

Stepping Back but Not Stepping Down

Stokes described his move from February not as retirement, but stepping back, as Seven prepares to merge with a major radio network that includes Triple M and Hit Networks.

“The whole industry needs some protection,”
he said.

From Humble Beginnings to Media Titan

Often called the last mogul standing after Kerry Packer’s death and Rupert Murdoch’s retirement, Stokes’s story is notable for his rise from a poor, dyslexic TV aerial installer to billionaire network owner over 47 years since his initial investment in Seven.

“Oh, um, I got lucky,”
Stokes modestly reflected on his success.

Commitment to Quality Content

Even after all the challenges, Stokes remains passionate about delivering quality programming to Australians.

“I love the fact that regardless of the headaches, we produce for the Australian public quality news, quality sports coverage and good entertainment.”

Author’s summary: Kerry Stokes, Australia’s enduring media figure, steps back after nearly 50 years but remains deeply committed to free TV and quality content for the nation.

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7NEWS 7NEWS — 2025-11-06

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