Channel 7 reporter Mel McLaughlin to reveal she’s been treating cancer since late 2025, missing broadcasts since January.

Channel 7 sports reporter Mel McLaughlin is set to publicly disclose she has been battling cancer since late last year, explaining her absence from the airwaves since January. The 46-year-old, a longtime fixture in Australian sports broadcasting, has been undergoing treatment privately, missing recent events including the NRL season launch. Her last on-screen appearance was on January 6 at Jane McGrath Day, an event supporting cancer care. Colleagues stepped in during her absence, and staff were briefed ahead of a promotional teaser. McLaughlin will share her diagnosis and treatment journey in an upcoming 6pm 7News interview. Fans and colleagues have expressed support, urging privacy during her recovery.