US news site Politico to launch in Australia
Sydney Morning Herald
by Michael Koziol, Calum JaspanFebruary 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Politico, a leading US political news outlet known for its influential "Playbook" series, is set to expand into Australia later this year. The move marks a significant shift in the country’s media landscape, with the outlet aiming to bring its signature blend of daily news, insider gossip, and global insights to Canberra. Led by Ryan Heath, an Australian-born journalist with extensive experience in US, UK, and European politics, the new venture will focus on connecting local readers with international developments, particularly in areas like trade, defense, and energy.
The launch of "Canberra Playbook" is timed for after the winter parliamentary recess, following Politico’s successful global expansion strategy. The outlet has already established a strong presence in major cities worldwide, including Washington, Brussels, London, and New York, with its coverage deeply rooted in political analysis and policy insights. Heath emphasized that Australians need journalism that bridges local and global power dynamics, aligning with Politico’s mission to deliver high-quality, data-driven reporting.
Politico’s expansion into Australia comes at a time when the country is increasingly drawn into international economic and geopolitical developments, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. The outlet aims to fill a gap in the market by providing readers with a deeper understanding of these issues, leveraging its expertise in US and European politics to offer unique perspectives on global trends.
The decision to enter the Australian market also highlights Politico’s broader strategy to expand its influence beyond traditional news territories. While the company has faced challenges, including union disputes over AI integration,
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/25/2026