Indian-origin journalist Jai Bharadwaj appointed Vice-President of Melbourne Press Club

Indian-origin journalist Jai Bharadwaj, Managing Editor of The Australia Today, has been appointed Vice-President of the Melbourne Press Club, marking a historic milestone for diversity and inclusion in Australian journalism.

He becomes the first person of Indian origin to hold this prestigious position, a moment that resonates deeply with the Indian media fraternity and the global diaspora alike.

From Indian newsrooms to Australian media leadership

Before moving to Australia, Jai Bharadwaj built a distinguished career in Indian television journalism. He worked for some of India’s most prominent news networks — Zee News, IBN7, NewsX, and Sahara, where he established himself as a sharp and credible voice on national and international affairs.

After relocating to Australia, he joined SBS Radio as a Radio Jockey and Anchor, becoming a familiar voice among the Indian and South Asian communities.

His fearless journalism drew international attention

Bharadwaj made international headlines when his interview with India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar was banned by the Canadian government — a move that drew strong reactions from both the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and global media observers.

The episode exposed the Justin Trudeau government’s discomfort with objective reporting on India-related issues, while reinforcing Bharadwaj’s reputation for integrity, balance, and fearless journalism.

Melbourne Press Club’s new leadership

The Melbourne Press Club, one of Australia’s most respected media institutions, announced its new leadership team following the Annual General Meeting on October 22.

The office bearers include Michael Bachelard (President), Heidi Murphy (Vice-President), Veronica Scott (Treasurer), and Jay Mueller (Secretary).

The Club has also welcomed five new board members, further strengthening its focus on finance, partnerships, and industry engagement.

A milestone for Indian journalism abroad

Bharadwaj’s appointment is more than a personal achievement — it symbolizes the growing global influence of Indian journalists and the power of India’s media voice in international institutions.It also underscores the credibility Indian professionals have built worldwide through objective storytelling, integrity, and cross-cultural communication.