AustraliaOwnership & classification
Founded: 1831
Ownership
The Sydney Morning Herald, founded in 1831 as The Sydney Herald and renamed in 1842 under owner John Fairfax, is the country's oldest continuously published newspaper. Long the flagship of the Fairfax family and later John Fairfax Holdings/Fairfax Media, it has been owned by Nine Entertainment Co. since Fairfax merged into Nine in December 2018. It is Nine's premier print/digital masthead, a sister to The Age and the Australian Financial Review.
Funding
Funded commercially via advertising and a digital subscription paywall; Nine reported over 510,000 combined paying digital subscribers across the SMH, The Age and the AFR, with no state or licence-fee support.
Affiliation & stance
The Herald has a centre to centre-left editorial leaning but operates under Fairfax's inherited charter of editorial independence and is owned by a publicly listed commercial company. With no party, church, union or government control over its ownership, the INDEPENDENT classification is correct.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Left
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 340
85/100
Factual
83/100
Objective
1020
Articles
1020
reports
Top stories
Most covered right now
U.S. and Iran agree to cease attacks and return to talks
Morocco won the world's respect after eliminating the Netherlands
Seven reasons I fear for England against Mexico
The first day of the knockout phase, Canada is in the last eight.
This is World Cup day, the pressure is on with the second round.
Deeming wins stay of execution as Liberal Party delays meeting on her future
Auction clearance rates fall to lowest level in six years
Iran says it’s closed key shipping route again
ASX falls as tech stocks, gold miners decline; WiseTech extends its slump
Recent coverage
An American gets the maximum amount of recovery time at Wimbledon.
The article discusses the scheduling of the first-round doubles match at Wimbledon involving American tennis player Serena Williams and her sister Venus Williams against the Argentine-Colombian pair Solana Sierra and Camila Osorio. The match was initially scheduled for Thursday and Friday but has been postponed due to Serena's injury during her singles match. Tournament organizer Andy Murray (likely a misstatement, as Andy Murray is a British player, and the correct name might be someone like Ashley Barker or another official) stated they are giving Serena as much time as possible to recover. They ruled out postponing the match to later dates unless necessary for safety or tournament flow. The match is expected to take place on a larger court to accommodate the large crowd attracted by Serena and Venus, who are major stars. Serena returned to professional tennis after four years, but she lost her first singles match and injured her knee. She did not attend a press conference afterward due to health reasons and expressed her commitment to participating in the doubles event. Serena and Venus have won six doubles titles together, including a title in 2016.
Ukraine reports two dead after night attacks by Russia, with the death toll in Kiev rising to 30.
At least two people were killed and eight injured in Russian air strikes on the Sumy region and Kryvyj Rih in Ukraine during the night of Thursday to Friday, according to Ukrainian authorities. This follows a large-scale Russian attack on Kyiv earlier in the week which killed at least 30 people and injured around 100 others. In response to the attacks, Ukraine conducted missile strikes on Belgorod in Russia, causing a fire at an energy facility and killing one woman, according to Russian media. The overnight strike on the city of Romny in the Sumy region hit a residential building, killing two women and injuring a man, reported regional administrator Oleh Hryhorov via Telegram. Another seven people were injured in a missile strike on Kryvyj Rih, according to military city administrator Oleksandr Vilkul. In Kyiv, teams discovered three more dead bodies during the night, bringing the total number of victims to 30, according to Reuters citing Ukrainian health authorities. Kyiv's military administrator Tymur Tkačenko stated that the attack injured 99 people. Moscow claimed the extensive attack was a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, including those carried
Minns backs Hunter with $12b to replace ageing Tangara fleet
The New South Wales (NSW) government under Premier Chris Minns has committed to investing $12 billion over 15 years to construct a new generation of Tangara trains in the Hunter region. Two potential locations—Teralba (a former coal mine owned by Glencore) and Broadmeadow Locomotive Depot—are being considered for the manufacturing facility. This initiative aims to create over 1,300 jobs, including 780 during the construction phase, and establish long-term train manufacturing in NSW. The timing of the announcement coincides with the upcoming state election and rising political pressure from the One Nation party in traditionally safe Labor seats. The project contrasts with the previous Coalition government's practice of importing trains from overseas, with Minns criticizing this approach as lacking ambition. The investment follows earlier efforts to extend the life of the current Tangara fleet and plans to eventually replace other train fleets in the 2040s and 2050s.
The Sydney detention centre filled with children yet to be convicted
The article discusses the conditions at Sydney's youth detention centers, highlighting that they hold children who have been charged with crimes ranging from shoplifting to murder. It notes that less than four percent of these children are ultimately sentenced, raising concerns about the system's approach to juvenile justice. The piece emphasizes the disparity between the number of children processed through the system and those who receive formal legal consequences, suggesting potential issues with over-incarceration or lack of rehabilitation efforts.
Superquiz, Tuesday, June 30, 2026
The Age published a brief announcement promoting their Mini Crossword puzzle, available to premium subscribers. The article invites readers to test their skills with a puzzle featuring ten clues and twenty-five squares. It encourages users to track their progress and share results with others. Subscribers to The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald have access to the puzzles through the provided links. The content focuses on promoting the game rather than discussing any specific topic.
Curnow’s sensational six-goal haul bullies the Dogs; English moved to full-back as Grundy dominates
The Sydney Morning Herald reported on an Australian Football League (AFL) match between the Sydney Swans and the Western Bulldogs, highlighting standout performances by players from both teams. Charlie Curnow, a newly recruited star for the Swans, scored six goals, leading his team to a dominant 35-point victory. Brodie Grundy of the Bulldogs showcased exceptional ruck performance with 17 disposals, five tackles, and 60 hitouts. Coach Luke Beveridge praised Grundy's dominance while deploying Tim English in defense, which drew criticism from commentator Jason Dunstall. The Bulldogs' lackluster effort and dramatic faked injuries were noted, while injuries to key players forced tactical adjustments for the Swans. Hayden McLean contributed three goals in his fifth AFL game, proving crucial for the team.
Walker apologises for foul kicking act
Cody Walker, captain of South Sydney in the NRL, has publicly apologized for a controversial action during a match where he kicked an opposing player in a fit of anger. The incident occurred in a recent game, and Walker expressed regret for letting his team down and for the behavior displayed. The apology was made public on July 3, 2026, highlighting the emotional and professional repercussions of his actions. The event has sparked discussions within the sports community regarding player conduct and accountability.
Why Tom Jenkins is a genuine chance of breaking a 91-year record
On July 2, 2026, Penrith rugby league player Tom Jenkins is positioned as the sole contender to break a 91-year-old try-scoring record set by Dave Brown in 1935. Brown scored 38 tries in 15 games, a feat matched by other notable players like Ray Preston and Alex Johnston. Jenkins currently has 22 tries in 15 games and needs 17 more in the remaining regular-season matches and potential finals. Jenkins acknowledges the challenge, noting that scoring consistency is difficult, and he hasn't focused much on the record itself, emphasizing team success over individual stats. He highlighted two standout performances: a memorable aerial try over Canterbury's Marcelo Montoya and a rare four-try haul against the Roosters. Jenkins also shared personal anecdotes, including his nickname 'Milky' due to his pale complexion and his upbringing in Boorowa, NSW.
To'o reflects on being dropped by the Blues
The article reports on Brian To'o's reflections regarding his exclusion from selection for the NSW Blues' series decider. Published on July 3, 2026, the piece discusses To'o's reaction to not being chosen for the crucial match. It highlights the competitive nature of team selection in rugby league and the emotional impact on players. The focus is on the decision-making process within the team and the implications for To'o's career.
Souths rookie makes insane try-saving tackle
The article reports on a notable rugby league moment where Dayne Jennings, a rookie player, made an impressive try-saving tackle during a match. The incident was highlighted as a standout moment, drawing admiration from veteran players. The piece focuses on the athletic performance and the impact of the tackle within the game. It does not delve into broader implications or controversies surrounding the event.
New fellowship for mid-career journalists honours Judith Whelan
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), The Sydney Morning Herald, and Sydney University have established the Judith Whelan Leadership Fellowship to honor the late journalist Judith Whelan, who passed away from cancer in 2024. Whelan was recognized for her significant contributions to Australian media, particularly her leadership style and efforts to support young women in the industry. The annual fellowship aims to continue her legacy by empowering future female leaders in journalism. Her husband, Chris Henning, praised the collaboration between three institutions she respected, highlighting the initiative's importance in fostering talent among young women. The fellowship includes participation in the Sydney Leadership Accelerator Program and opportunities for additional training. Whelan, who previously held leadership roles at both the Herald and ABC, was known for her kindness and dedication to supporting women in their careers.
Suspected bird flu case found in NSW, authorities say
A suspected case of the deadly H5N1 bird flu has been detected in a migratory bird in New South Wales (NSW), marking the potential spread of the virus to a third Australian state. This follows five confirmed cases in wild seabirds across Western Australia and South Australia since early June. Authorities emphasize that the virus has not yet spread to local poultry populations or caused mass wildlife deaths. NSW Agriculture Minister Tara Moriaty and Chief Veterinary Officer Jo Coombe confirmed the discovery during a press conference, highlighting increased preparedness and expanded surveillance efforts. The virus, which has devastated bird populations globally, was previously absent in Australia until its detection on the mainland in late June. Public health advisories urge people to avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife and report findings to emergency hotlines.
What happens if Australia beat Egypt in the World Cup Round of 32?
This article discusses Australia's potential World Cup match against Egypt in the Round of 32, highlighting it as a significant opportunity for the Socceroos to achieve their first win in a World Cup knockout match. The Opta supercomputer predicts a 46.02% chance of Australia defeating Egypt, which would advance them to the Round of 16 where they could face the winner of Argentina vs. Cape Verde. The article outlines various hypothetical paths for Australia's progression through the tournament, including improbable scenarios such as reaching the quarter-finals (11.2%) and the semifinals (4.47%). It emphasizes the competitive nature of the matchups and provides details about the scheduling and locations of these potential games.
Overlooked
Under-reported & one-sided
Five burning questions facing Popovic’s Socceroos before their date with destiny
ASX Runners of the Week: Baumart, NuEnergy & Wide Open Agriculture
Australian cities can learn a lot from Paris – and its gardens
Two major reforms bring setbacks for federal government
Solomon expects 'tap on shoulder' in Bombers coach race
For some, it’s the ultimate travel bucket list. Here’s why you can’t trust it
Sinner survives scare after being on brink of unwanted Wimbledon history
US-Iran talks wobble as senior clerics call for assassination of ‘criminal’ Trump
