Seven and Southern Cross Media to merge, Kerry Stokes to retire. Proposed merger brings together media giants as Kerry Stokes flags retirement from February 2026. Seven West Media and Southern Cross Media have agreed to a merger to create a leading integrated Total TV, Audio and Digital platform. The merge combines two media businesses with strong positions in the market across their free-to-air television, streaming, audio, digital and publishing assets. Mr Leffler has indicated his intention to continue on the combined Board through the acquisition and retire from the Board as at 30 June 2026.