Sky News Australia found itself in the spotlight this week as host Laura Jayes issued an on-air correction during an interview with One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce. The correction, which occurred in real-time, has fueled speculation about whether One Nation leader Pauline Hanson demanded an explanation from the network’s executives.
During the interview, Jayes questioned Joyce about One Nation’s recent political momentum and asked if he intended to transform the party into one “ready for government.” She referenced a controversial 2019 Al Jazeera documentary that allegedly captured Hanson on camera discussing gun rights in exchange for donations. However, Jayes later clarified her statement, admitting, “The way I phrased that question… it was incorrect.” She emphasized that Hanson was not recorded seeking support from the NRA.
The documentary in question actually depicted meetings between Hanson’s then-chief of staff James Ashby, former Queensland party leader Steve Dickson, and undercover operatives posing as NRA representatives. Jayes reiterated that One Nation has consistently denied any intention to weaken Australia’s gun laws, stating, “[Hanson] always maintained she was not – and is not – looking to water down gun laws.”
Freya Leach’s Departure from Sky News
Meanwhile, Freya Leach, a rising conservative commentator, announced her departure from Sky News. During an appearance on “The Late Debate,” Leach revealed her decision to leave the network, marking the end of a promising chapter in her broadcasting career. “After a lot of thought, I’ve decided to finish up on The Late Debate,” the 23-year-old stated.
Leach’s late-night talk show was canceled four months ago, and she reflected fondly on her time with the program, describing it as “so much fun” to host. Although she plans to remain on air for a few more weeks, Leach has not disclosed her future media endeavors. Currently, she continues her role as Director of the Centre for Youth Policy at the Menzies Research Centre.
Industry insiders suggest that Leach’s recent appearance on former Deputy Prime Minister John Anderson’s podcast may have influenced her departure. During the segment, she criticized Taylor Swift as a “poor role model” for young women, sparking backlash online. Sources indicate that Sky News management advised Leach to “cool off” following the interview.
Mediaweek’s Controversial Past Resurfaces
In a surprising turn of events, Mediaweek’s turbulent history has resurfaced, prompted by an Instagram post from Anita Anabel, a former employee of Mediaweek’s sister site Chattr. Anabel’s post detailed her departure from the company in 2024, a period marked by internal turmoil.
Three senior media figures confirmed that Anabel’s accusations were directed at Trent Thomas, the former publisher and managing director of Mediaweek. In 2024, Mediaweek had issued a press release acknowledging an HR investigation into complaints from two employees, which resulted in Thomas “electing to step back.” Subsequently, Mediaweek was sold to the ASX-listed Vinyl Group for approximately one million dollars.
Thomas retained ownership of Chattr, now a separate entity, and continues to publish the entertainment and pop culture website. Despite the controversy, Thomas’ lawyer, Simon Kumar, stated that his client “denies the accuracy of the allegations” and declined further comment.
Changes and Chatter in Australian Media
The Australian media landscape is witnessing significant changes, with Stephen Brook transitioning from The Age’s CBD column to a senior features writer role. His replacement, Fiona Byrne, will join from the Sunday Herald Sun. Both journalists declined to comment on their new roles.
Meanwhile, the return of parliamentary sessions has revived the “Parliamentary Friends Of” events, offering MPs and staffers opportunities to network and unwind. Notably, Labor’s youngest senator, Charlotte Walker, and Teal MP Allegra Spender were seen mingling at a recent showcase, where a baby crocodile from the Canberra Reptile Zoo stole the spotlight.
In a lighter vein, Sunrise weatherman Sam Mac and radio personality Jackie O found their autobiographies in the bargain bins at Kmart and Target, respectively. The discovery, made by MAFS star Nasser, adds a humorous twist to the ever-evolving celebrity landscape.
