David Koch AM has been awarded an Honorary Doctor of the University from Flinders University in recognition of his contribution as one of Australia’s most prominent financial commentators and media professionals, who continues to use his extensive expertise to advocate for small business and to promote South Australia as a destination of choice.
Born in Adelaide, David Koch AM began his career in the early 1980s as a financial journalist and went on to become a pioneer of consumer finance journalism.
His achievements also extend into business. He launched media agency Pinstripe Media, followed by KBB Digital, a digital marketing agency for small businesses. In 2020, he co-launched ausbiz, an Australian business and finance streaming platform, and in 2023 joined Compare the Market Australia as Economic Director.
Koch, or ‘Kochie’, was the co-host of Seven Network’s Sunrise breakfast program for 21 years – a record for breakfast TV in Australia - and was twice nominated for a Silver Logie.
He was named 2007 Australian Father of the Year by the Australian Father’s Day Council and, was appointed Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in 2024, for significant service to media and economic journalism.
Koch is the current South Australian Tourism Commission Chair and Port Adelaide Football Club Chairman.
Flinders University Chancellor, Mr John Hood, says: “This is an honour seldom given but richly deserved by David Koch.”
Mr Hood says: “He is a trusted figure and skilled communicator, who has devoted much of his life and career to helping Australians better understand personal finance – and being a strong voice for small businesses, which are so vital to our state’s economy, and the nation’s.
“David passionately, and tirelessly, champions South Australia.”
At the graduation ceremony, David Koch said: “What a great honour.”
He told graduates: “Whatever you do in life, whatever you achieve, whatever your success – your resilience and, frankly, life’s joys, will be centred around the team that you have around you.
“The team around you now and also the team you will add into the future.
“I was lucky that the two heroes in my life are my Dad and Grandfather as I grew up in Largs North. Two extraordinary role models.
“My team is a wife of now 47 years, four married children (and) ten grandchildren.”