The network is expanding its digital presence in ways that challenge traditional media giants. By increasing YouTube video views from 3.8 billion in late 2023 to over 7.2 billion today, Sky News Australia is positioning itself as a leading name in political news. This rise is being driven by international audiences looking for strong commentary and opinion-driven coverage.
The channel launched its YouTube platform six and a half years ago and has gradually extended its reach from a strong local base to a global audience. Over the past two years, demand for its video content has surged, especially in the United States. As a result, it now ranks 9th among the most-watched news channels worldwide on YouTube, overtaking both the BBC and Sky News UK with 6.5 billion and 5.5 billion views respectively.
This growth has been powered by two standout programs, Lefties Losing It and Power Hour. These shows offer political commentary paired with highly shareable content, which has resonated with viewers internationally, particularly in the US. One program even outperformed popular American commentators to rank among the top 15 podcasts on YouTube in the US. By targeting niche interests with viral impact, Sky News Australia has turned its local programming into content with global appeal.
The momentum continues. With new multimedia studios recently built in Sydney, the channel is investing further in its digital coverage. Almost five million unique Australian viewers access Sky News Australia through YouTube each month. The broadcaster is using its newest infrastructure to grow its following both domestically and overseas. As this shift unfolds, its online-first strategy could signal how the news landscape is changing.
