Channel 9 Exposed: Disturbing Harassment Claims from Inside the Network

Channel 9 Exposed: Disturbing Harassment Claims

Channel 9 publicly faced its demons today after a report into the culture at the broadcaster revealed the extent of disturbing behaviour going on inside its offices. Independent investigators found abuse and sickening harassment everywhere in the company, stating that Nine has a systemic issue with abuse of power and authority; bullying, discrimination, and sexual harassment.

A Culture of Fear and Intimidation

It comes after the Nine Network’s long-standing news boss Darren Wick abruptly left, accused of sexual harassment and abusing his power. He denies these allegations. The new report was most scathing of Nine’s TV newsrooms, with accounts from scores of employees detailing their experiences. One staff member shared, “When I was in (location), (employee) tried to groom me. He also touched me on the bum at the Christmas party and would rub my legs under the table.”

• Another employee described constant comments about her body.
• “His comments made me feel like a piece of meat,” she said.
• One employee claimed they were sent to what was known as “punishment island” for complaining.

The report revealed how some employees felt “broken” and left with debilitating anxiety. According to another quote, “we used to talk about being bullied and harassed like you’d talk about the weather.”

The Network's Response

In the wake of these revelations, 7NEWS entertainment reporter Peter Ford stated that the stories are “absolutely horrific.” Ford expressed hope that this report would lead to real change within Nine, emphasizing the importance of investigations into workplace culture. Nine’s chair Catherine West publicly apologized, stating, “the behavior outlined in the report is unacceptable.”

The Nine Network has thus far protected the identities of individuals involved but promises to implement 22 recommendations to combat and address this negative culture.