Former journalist and ABC’s director of communications Mick Millett passes away
Mick Millett passed away on Saturday at the age of 60 following a battle with cancer.
Millett joined the ABC in 2009 as director of communications. His earlier career as a journalist included time in various reporting roles for Fairfax’s The Sydney Morning Herald, where he eventually became deputy editor.
Millett joined the ABC in 2009
The ABC’s managing director, David Anderson, said Millett had been an invaluable supporter and advisor to three MDs – Mark Scott, Michelle Guthrie and himself – but remained a journalist at heart.
“He remained a reporter at heart, and he came from a generation of journalists who held sacred the values of truth and accountability. He was tireless in his defence of public broadcasting and the rights of journalists everywhere,” Anderson said in a statement.
Anderson added: “Mick was a truly remarkable man, and an important and influential figure in the Australian media, and I know accolades and remembrances will flow for him today.
“He was a friend and mentor to many journalists who respected him for leading by example. Mick never took a backward step.”
James Chessell, the group executive of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, said Millett’s skills went well beyond finding stories, reporting and editing.
“He was calm and funny and had a sense of perspective. He was someone you could go to for a quiet word or some sensible advice,” Chessell said, according to The Sydney Morning Herald.
“Newsrooms can be tough and competitive places, but Mick had a genuine warmth that reassured and built confidence. He will be missed by everyone at the Herald and The Age. Our condolences to his family.”
Anderson noted Millett had been “very sick for some time”.
