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Ita Buttrose, born on January 17, 1942, in Potts Point, New South Wales, Australia, is a distinguished journalist, editor, author, and businesswoman whose career has significantly shaped Australian media. From her early days as a copy girl to her tenure as the founding editor of Cleo magazine and later as the first female editor-in-chief of The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Telegraph, Buttrose’s journey is a testament to her pioneering spirit and dedication to journalism.

Interesting Facts and Trivia

First Female Editor-in-Chief: Buttrose was the first female editor-in-chief of a major metropolitan newspaper in Australia, breaking significant gender barriers in the media industry.

Television Appearances: Beyond her editorial roles, Buttrose has appeared on various television programs, including a cameo on The Bold and the Beautiful in 2017.

She has also been a regular broadcaster and activist in the area of community affairs.

During her tenure, she was recognized for her leadership and commitment to upholding governance standards.

Notable Works and Achievements

Beyond her editorial roles, Buttrose has authored several books, including her autobiography, A Passionate Life, and A Guide to Australian Etiquette.

In 1975, Buttrose transitioned to edit The Australian Women’s Weekly, and by 1976, she was appointed editor-in-chief of both The Australian Women’s Weekly and Cleo. Her tenure at The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Telegraph from 1981 to 1984 further solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in Australian journalism.

Career Beginnings and Key Milestones

Buttrose began her journalism career as a copy girl at The Australian Women’s Weekly. She quickly advanced to a cadet journalist position at The Daily Telegraph and The Sunday Telegraph. At 23, she became the women’s editor of The Daily Telegraph, making her one of the youngest editors in Australia. In 1972, she was appointed the founding editor of Cleo magazine, a role that marked a significant shift in Australian women’s media by addressing topics like sexuality and independence. Under her leadership, Cleo became a cultural phenomenon, selling its entire original print run in just two days.

  • Full Name: Ita Clare Buttrose
  • Date of Birth: January 17, 1942
  • Place of Birth: Potts Point, New South Wales, Australia
  • Nationality: Australian
  • Early Life: Raised in Sydney, Buttrose was the daughter of journalist Charles Oswald Buttrose. She spent her early years in New York City before returning to Australia.
  • Family Background: Daughter of Charles Oswald Buttrose, a prominent journalist and editor.
  • Education: Attended Dover Heights Home Science High School; left at 15 to pursue journalism.
  • Career Beginnings: Started as a copy girl atThe Australian Women’s Weekly; became a cadet journalist atThe Daily TelegraphandThe Sunday Telegraph.
  • Notable Works: Founding editor ofCleomagazine; editor-in-chief ofThe Daily TelegraphandThe Sunday Telegraph.
  • Relationship Status: Divorced twice; has two children.
  • Spouse or Partner: Alasdair “Mac” Macdonald (married 1963–1976); Peter Sawyer (married 1979–1980).
  • Children: Daughter Kate and son Ben.
  • Net Worth: Estimated at $10 million; income sources include publishing, media consulting, and public speaking engagements.
  • MajorAchievements: First female editor-in-chief of a major metropolitan newspaper in Australia; appointed Chair of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation in 2019.
  • Other Details: Advocate for Alzheimer’s Australia; named Australian of the Year in 2013.

Current Relevance and Recent Updates

As of February 2025, Buttrose continues to be a prominent figure in Australian media. She has been involved in recent legal proceedings concerning the dismissal of ABC Radio Sydney presenter Antoinette Lattouf, highlighting ongoing discussions about editorial independence and governance within the ABC.

Early Life and Family Background

Ita Buttrose was born in Potts Point, Sydney, to Charles Oswald Buttrose, a journalist and editor, and Clare Buttrose. Her father was the editor of The Daily Mirror in Sydney and later the assistant general manager of the ABC. The family spent six years in New York City during her father’s tenure as the New York correspondent for The Daily Mirror. Upon returning to Australia, Buttrose completed her secondary education at Dover Heights Home Science High School, leaving at 15 to pursue a career in journalism.

Philanthropy: She has been involved in numerous charitable organizations, including the Macular Disease Foundation Australia, reflecting her commitment to community service.

Personal Life and Relationships

Buttrose has been married twice. Her first marriage was to architect Alasdair “Mac” Macdonald in 1963; they had two children, Kate and Ben, before divorcing in 1976. She married Peter Sawyer in 1979, but the marriage ended in 1980.

In 2019, Buttrose was appointed Chair of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), a position she held until March 2024.

Net Worth and Lifestyle

Ita Buttrose’s estimated net worth is $10 million. Her income sources include publishing, media consulting, and public speaking engagements. She has also been involved in various philanthropic activities, including her role as a patron of the Macular Disease Foundation Australia.

Charitable Work and Legacy

Throughout her career, Buttrose has been a patron and ambassador for several organizations, including Women of Vision, World Vision Australia, and the Macular Disease Foundation Australia. Her philanthropic efforts have significantly contributed to various causes, particularly in health and women’s rights.

Disclaimer: Ita Buttrose: Age, wealth data updated April 2026.