ABC Spent Over $2.5 Million Defending Antoinette Lattouf legal Action
Sydney, Australia - Teh Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) spent more than $2.5 million defending legal action brought by former radio presenter Antoinette Lattouf, according to evidence presented to a Senate Estimates hearing today. The figure includes both internal and external costs associated with the case, which stemmed from Lattouf’s removal from air during a five-day presenting contract in December 2023.
The Federal Court previously found the ABC breached the Fair Work Act by removing Lattouf, determining the decision was made, in part, to appease pro-Israel lobbyists following a campaign of complaints. Justice Darryl Rangiah found the ABC unlawfully terminated Lattouf’s employment for reasons “including that she held a political opinion opposing the Israeli military campaign in Gaza.”
ABC Managing Director David Marks acknowledged the significant expenditure and stated, “This was all there to be avoided; it is not a good reflection on the organisation.” He added the ABC had learned from the matter, emphasizing the need to be “calm under pressure” and “follow our processes,” as well as clarifying decision-making authority within the organization.
“There seemed to be many failings in the Lattouf matter,” Marks said. “It should have been done better, and it wasn’t.”
Following the court’s ruling, Lattouf posted on social media that the case was not about financial gain for her, and alleged the ABC had spent “well over $2 million of taxpayer money” on its defense. The newly revealed figure of over $2.5 million confirms the substantial financial burden the case placed on the national broadcaster.
