Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Ray Martin Net Worth Explained: What Are His Income Sources?

2 mins read
July 31, 2025
Ray Martin Net Worth

Ray Martin has been a familiar face on Australian television for decades, and many viewers still ask the same question: what is Ray Martin’s net worth today?

As of 2025, the veteran journalist and presenter is estimated to have a net worth of around USD 2.5 million (approximately AUD 3.7 million).

This figure reflects not only his long career in broadcasting but also smart investments and years of work on special projects even after stepping away from full‑time hosting.

A Life Shaped by Humble Beginnings

Raymond George Martin was born on 20 December 1944 in Richmond, New South Wales. His early life was far from glamorous.

Raised by his mother, Veronica Grace, after his father left the family, Martin has often spoken about those years with honesty.

In an interview with ABC Radio, he said, 

“Mum did everything for us, and watching her struggle taught me the value of work and compassion.”

He attended Launceston College before earning a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Sydney, laying the foundation for his future in journalism.

From Cadet Reporter to Television Legend

Martin started his career in 1965 as a cadet journalist at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

His big break came in the 1970s when he was sent to New York as the ABC’s North America correspondent, covering everything from anti‑war protests to U.S. presidential elections.

In 1978, he joined the Nine Network as one of the founding reporters on 60 Minutes, where his incisive interviews quickly made him a household name.

Over the years, he hosted some of Australia’s most popular programs:

  • Midday with Ray Martin (1985–1993)
  • A Current Affair (1994–1998, 2003–2005)
  • Carols by Candlelight (1990–2007)

Martin’s work has earned him five Gold Logies and an induction into the Logie Hall of Fame.

How Ray Martin Built His Wealth?

Much of Martin’s fortune came from his television career, with reports in the late 1990s suggesting he was earning around AUD 2.2 million per year at his peak.

An investigative piece in BRW magazine in 1998 revealed that Martin also held significant investments, including shares in Telstra, News Corp, Woolworths, NAB, and ANZ through his family company, Kinda Holdings.

He has also authored several books, including My Lucky Life and Ray Martin’s Favourites, which continue to bring in royalties.

A Look at His Assets

Martin has kept a modest public image. Recent reports noted his purchase of a home in Cammeray, Sydney, for AUD 4.25 million, a sign of his careful but solid investments over the years.

Unlike many celebrities, he is not known for flaunting luxury cars or extravagant collections.

Philanthropy and Public Service

Beyond wealth, Martin is widely respected for his charitable work. He has been a long‑time ambassador for the Fred Hollows Foundation, helping to fight avoidable blindness in Australia and overseas.

He also serves as a patron of the Humpty Dumpty Foundation, supporting children’s hospitals across the country.

Speaking at a charity event in 2023, Martin said, 

“What Fred Hollows taught me decades ago is that a good story isn’t enough if it doesn’t lead to action.”

Personal Life

Ray Martin has been married to Dianne Martin for many years, and the couple have two children, Luke and Jenna.

He often credits his family for keeping him grounded throughout his career.

A Lasting Legacy

Even in recent years, Martin has remained active. In 2024, he hosted the SBS series Ray Martin: The Last Goodbye, exploring Australia’s changing funeral traditions.

Viewers praised the documentary for its sensitivity and depth, proof that Martin’s storytelling still resonates.

Ethan Matthews

Ethan Matthews is the CEO and Editorial Director of Trending.nz, leading the platform with over 15 years of experience in digital media and newsroom management. He is responsible for guiding the editorial team, setting high journalistic standards, and ensuring every story is accurate, well‑researched, and trustworthy. Ethan holds a Master’s degree in Media and Communication from Massey University and is passionate about building a publication that reflects New Zealand’s voice. Under his leadership, Trending.nz delivers news, entertainment, and lifestyle content that readers can rely on every day.

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