The Australian Broadcasting Corporation has been compelled to make a substantial financial payment to journalist Antoinette Lattouf, following a landmark ruling that found her dismissal after just three days of work was unlawful.
The Fair Work Commission determined that the public broadcaster illegally sacked the temporary presenter in December 2023, after complaints were made about her social media activity regarding the Gaza conflict.
A Controversial Dismissal
Lattouf was engaged for a five-day presenting role on ABC Sydney's morning radio show when she shared a Human Rights Watch post alleging Israel was using starvation as a weapon of war. The post triggered complaints from pro-Israel groups, leading to her abrupt removal from the position.
The commission found the ABC's actions constituted unlawful termination, noting that Lattouf was targeted for expressing a political opinion, which is protected under workplace laws.
Legal Victory for Media Freedom
This case represents a significant victory for journalistic freedom and workplace rights in Australia. The ruling establishes an important precedent regarding the protection of employees' political expressions outside of work hours.
Legal experts suggest the compensation amount could be substantial, given the public nature of the dismissal and its impact on Lattouf's professional reputation.
Broader Implications for the Media Industry
The outcome sends a strong message to media organisations about the legal boundaries surrounding employee dismissals related to personal social media use. It highlights the tension between organisational reputation management and individual rights to political expression.
The ABC now faces both financial consequences and reputational damage from the ruling, which questioned the broadcaster's editorial independence and handling of external pressure groups.
