Derryn Hinch, the blunt-talking broadcaster who became a household name across Australia and later entered federal politics, has died at the age of 82, 3AW confirmed.
"Very saddened to report Derryn Hinch has died," Peter Ford said.
Broadcasting career and public persona
Hinch established himself as a commanding presence on radio after joining Melbourne’s 3AW in 1979. Over more than three decades at the station he built a reputation for confronting authority, championing causes and courting controversy — qualities that won him devoted listeners and wide industry recognition. 3AW noted he was a "formidable presence" during the eight years he hosted the morning show and praised his decades of work as "uncompromising, compelling broadcasting." In 2010 he was inducted into the Australian Commercial Radio Hall of Fame.
Politics, activism and later life
Beyond radio, Hinch worked as a journalist and actor and later shifted into politics. He founded the Derryn Hinch Justice Party in 2015 and was elected to the Australian Senate the following year, serving a three-year term. His political platform reflected the same directness for which he was known on air.
Health struggles and personal history
Hinch spoke publicly about significant health challenges, including liver cancer and cirrhosis. In 2011 he received a life-saving liver transplant after doctors warned his survival without the operation was limited. Born in New Zealand, he rose to prominence through work in both Sydney and Melbourne.
Legacy
3AW’s statement observed that Hinch "fundamentally shaped" the station he considered home and said even listeners who disagreed with him respected his passionate commitment to his craft. His career spanned journalism, broadcasting and a stint in federal politics, leaving a multifaceted public legacy.
- Start at 3AW: 1979
- Radio Hall of Fame: 2010
- Liver transplant: 2011
- Founded party: 2015
- Elected to Senate: 2016 (three-year term)
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1979 | Joined 3AW |
| 2010 | Inducted into Radio Hall of Fame |
| 2011 | Liver transplant |
| 2015 | Founded Derryn Hinch Justice Party |
| 2016 | Elected to Australian Senate |
As outlets and colleagues reflect on his career, the broadcaster is remembered for a combative style that nevertheless attracted enduring loyalty. 3AW’s tribute noted Hinch leaves behind a legacy of compelling broadcasting and a profound influence on the station’s identity.
Further details about funeral arrangements or statements from family and political colleagues have not been released by the station at this time.
