One of the ABC’s most beloved hosts and journalist’s has used his final broadcast to remind viewers of the importance of the public broadcaster.

Kerry O'Brien signed off from Four Corners last night telling viewers,

“I’ve been privileged to enjoy a long and deeply fulfilling run with ABC current affairs programs over many years, and to have shared that journey with you. You are why we’re here,” he told viewers.

“And I’ve been massively privileged to have worked alongside so many of the best craftsmen and women our industry has produced – people dedicated to the pursuit of excellence. It should go without saying, but I’ll say it anyway – the more complex our future as a nation becomes, the more vital the ABC is to that future.

“I’m not retiring from journalism, just moving onto other things. In the meantime, go well and goodnight.”

O’Brien, who is best remembered as host of The 7:30 Report, and has been host of the Four Corners program for the past five years recently confirmed the decision to depart the program, the move coinciding with the end of his current contract with the ABC.

Despite ongoing budget cuts within the news division, the ABC has been at pains to make it known O’Brien, whom has been one of the organisations highest paid presenters, was not pushed out the door. When asked if O’Brien was offered the opportunity to renew his contract beyond this year a spokesperson for the ABC recently told DeciderTV, “Well he decided to leave, so I guess offering him a contract didn’t really arise.”

Update: The ABC has now confirmed journalist Sarah Ferguson will host Four Corners in 2016.