Sky News Australia removed Freya Leach from After Dark after airing Islamophobic and transphobic views, sparking calls for stronger media regulation.

Freya Leach was removed from Sky News Australia’s After Dark after an episode featuring guests promoting Islamophobic and transphobic views, with reports indicating senior executives knew of the lineup but took no action. Leach remains with Sky as a co-host on The Late Show, while her producer was let go. The incident has intensified scrutiny over Australia’s weak media regulation, as the ACMA lacks enforcement power and relies on self-regulation, leading experts and politicians to demand a stronger, independent watchdog to combat misinformation and harmful content. Sky News faces ongoing criticism for broadcasting extremist views with no meaningful consequences.