Jane Hansen, known for her impactful career as a reporter for A Current Affair and as the author of the controversial tell-all book Boned, has sadly passed away after facing brain cancer. She died on the Gold Coast, surrounded by her loved ones, leaving behind not just memories, but also significant contributions to Australian journalism. Her family expressed immense gratitude for the support she received during her 18-month illness, highlighting the love and compassion from her network.
The announcement of her death revealed the struggles she faced with her illness. "Jane put up an amazing fight right until the end and never once complained," her family stated, emphasizing her resilience and humor even during tough times.
Hansen began her journalism career at the Nine Network back in 1995, where she took on various roles before becoming one of the regular reporters on A Current Affair. She left Nine in 2008, the same year she co-authored Boned, which took the Australian television industry by storm. The name of the book was particularly referential, as it alluded to the internal culture at Nine, including the alleged behind-the-scenes practices faced by women working there.
The book was shrouded in secrecy and first published anonymously, stirring public intrigue about its authorship. It wasn't until later, through Hansen’s own revelations, we learned she co-wrote the book with fellow journalist Fiona McKenzie. Boned ostensibly tells the story of a female television journalist whose career suffers due to age discrimination, symbolizing much of the broader gender dynamics present within the media industry.
Through her powerful narrative, Hansen shed light on what she described as the problematic 'boys’ club' of television. She explained her motivation, stating, "When we wrote Boned, we had both left our jobs. We had young babies and we were freelancing. We’d been beaten down by the boys’ club. We’d been bullied. But we were never victims." These words encapsulated not only her personal experiences but echoed the struggles many women face within male-dominated industries.
Hansen’s career didn’t end with Boned. After departing from the Nine Network, she joined News Corp, where she became known for her columns on various social issues. She was particularly vocal about the anti-vaccination movement and played a significant role in the No Jab No Play campaign, which aimed to encourage immunization among Australian children.
Her advocacy work marked her as more than just a journalist. Most recently, she lent her voice to the podcast Mother’s Guilt, which examined the controversial case of Kathleen Folbigg, whose convictions for killing her children had reignited public discussion. Hansen's perspective throughout her career has consistently demonstrated her commitment to truth and accountability.
Hansen was often described by colleagues and friends as compassionate and courageous, traits not just pivotal to reporting but also fundamental to her character. One colleague said, "She had the ability to connect with people, sharing their stories, their struggles, and their victories." This connection extended beyond journalism; it showcased her genuine care for the causes she championed.
Many tributes poured in after her passing. Friends and colleagues recalled her lively spirit and the warmth she showed to everyone around her. Former associates noted her determination and how she challenged the norms of the industry she worked within. A notable reflection was the impact she had, not just as a journalist but as someone who advocated for more inclusivity, shedding light on gender disparities.
Throughout her life, Hansen’s endeavors extended beyond mere reporting. She ventured to various corners of the world as a war correspondent, taking bold steps to bring stories to life, even from the most dangerous places. This bravery contributed to her establishment as both respected and relatable to her audiences.
Looking back at her legacy, one can't help but appreciate how she broke boundaries and challenged male-dominated narratives, shifting the focus to the voices and experiences of those who were often left behind. She set a precedent for upcoming journalists, showing them the importance of integrity and moral responsibility.
Bidding farewell to Jane Hansen feels not just like losing a talented journalist but also losing the unwavering spirit of someone who fought for what's right, who pursued journalism as more than just a profession, but as a calling. Her fight against brain cancer may have ended, but her fight for women and the platform of journalism continues to resonate.
Hansen's contributions and her narrative will serve as inspiration for journalists and advocates alike. Her courage, compassion, and humor remain etched not just within the industry she helped shape but within the lives of everyone who had the privilege to know her or follow her work. Rest in peace, Jane Hansen.