Leigh Sales AM is one of Australia’s most prominent and respected journalists, widely recognized for her contributions to the field of broadcast journalism. Her career, spanning several decades, has made her a household name in Australia. But who is Leigh Sales, and where did her remarkable journey begin?
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Early Life and Education
Leigh Peta Sales was born on May 10, 1973, in Brisbane, Australia. She attended Aspley State High School in her hometown, where her journey into the world of journalism began. Sales had a thirst for knowledge and a passion for storytelling from an early age, and this drive led her to pursue a career in journalism.
After completing her high school education, Leigh Sales embarked on her academic journey, which would lay the foundation for her future success. She earned a Bachelor of Journalism from the Queensland University of Technology, equipping her with the skills needed for her future career. Sale was a dedicated student, eager to learn the ropes of journalism and become a voice for the people.

About the ABC
As she continued to nurture her passion for journalism, Sales expanded her academic horizons by earning a Master of International Relations from Deakin University. This multidisciplinary approach provided her with a broad perspective that would prove invaluable in her future reporting and storytelling.
Journalism Career
Leigh Sales entered the world of journalism in 1995 when she joined the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) in Brisbane. Her early years in the industry laid the groundwork for the remarkable career that would follow.
Over the years, Sales held various prominent roles at ABC. She covered significant events such as the 2000 Summer Olympics, the Iraq War, the 2004 U.S. presidential election, Guantanamo Bay, and Hurricane Katrina. Her unwavering commitment to delivering accurate and insightful news garnered her a reputation as a respected and dedicated journalist.
From 2008 to 2010, Sales co-hosted ABC’s “Lateline,” a late-night national current affairs program that delved into federal politics and international affairs. Her ability to engage with high-profile guests and tackle complex issues set her apart as a seasoned journalist.
In December 2010, Leigh Sales took on a pivotal role in her career when she was appointed the anchor of ABC’s current affairs program, “7.30.” In this role, she interviewed every living Australian prime minister, as well as numerous world leaders and celebrities. Her insightful, hard-hitting interviews became a hallmark of the program, cementing her status as a leading voice in Australian journalism.
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In 2019, Leigh Sales received the prestigious honor of being appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for her services to broadcast journalism. Her dedication and contributions to the field were celebrated by her peers and the nation.
Publishing Career
Sales’ journalistic talents extend beyond the screen. She is also an accomplished author, with several books to her name. Her first book, “Detainee 002: The Case of David Hicks,” published in 2007, explored Hicks’ case and the detainee policy during the War on Terror, shedding light on the Australian government’s involvement.
Her second book, “On Doubt,” published in 2009, examined the rise of opinion in news reporting and the value of skepticism in politics and policy. An updated edition in 2017 expanded on these ideas in the context of the Trump presidency and the rise of fake news.
Sales’ third book, “Any Ordinary Day,” published in 2018, delved into how people adapt to life-changing blindsides. Drawing on her own experiences and her coverage of significant news events, the book offered a profound exploration of resilience and hope.
Life Beyond Journalism
Beyond her professional achievements, Leigh Sales has also shown strength and resilience in her personal life. She was married to Phil Willis, and the couple had two sons, James Christopher Willis and Daniel Oscar Willis. After over 20 years of marriage, Sales and Willis decided to part ways in December 2016. Despite their separation, they maintained an amicable relationship and continued to co-parent their children.

Sales’ remarkable career, dedication to journalism, and insightful contributions to various media have made her a prominent and influential figure in Australian society. Her journey from Brisbane to the pinnacle of journalism is a testament to her passion, perseverance, and commitment to truth and storytelling. As she continues her career, there is no doubt that Leigh Sales will remain a respected and revered voice in the world of journalism.
Leigh Sales is a journalist whose journey from her hometown of Brisbane to the national and international stage has been filled with dedication, professionalism, and a commitment to delivering the truth to the public. Her contributions to journalism and her resilience in both her personal and professional life make her an inspiring figure in the field of broadcast journalism.
Leigh Sales: A Journey from Brisbane to the Pinnacle of Journalism.


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