Chris Uhlmann leaves ABC for Nine

Veteran ABC political editor Chris Uhlmann is leaving the public broadcaster for Channel 9 to replace veteran parliamentary reporter Laurie Oakes.

Uhlmann, 57, says it's time for another challenge as he takes on the role of chief political editor at the Nine Network following Oakes' retirement earlier this month.

"It is hard to leave the ABC. I do it with a heavy heart and a profound sense of gratitude," he told colleagues on Wednesday.