The Australian Broadcasting Corporation's controversial dismissal of presenter Antoinette Lattouf has already drained at least $2.5 million from the public broadcaster's coffers, former managing director Hugh Marks has revealed in a bombshell parliamentary testimony.
Financial Fallout Mounts in Landmark Case
During a tense Senate estimates hearing, Mr Marks disclosed the staggering costs associated with what the Federal Court has already ruled was an unlawful termination. The $2.5 million figure represents just the beginning of the financial hemorrhage, with legal fees and compensation payments expected to climb significantly higher.
The revelation exposes the severe financial consequences of the ABC's decision to sack Lattouf, who was terminated during her probation period in 2023 after just five days in a temporary radio hosting role.
Internal Turmoil and External Pressure
Mr Marks told senators the case had created "significant internal disruption and external reputational damage" to the national broadcaster. The testimony painted a picture of an organisation struggling to balance editorial independence with external political pressures.
The former managing director acknowledged the case had raised serious questions about the ABC's employment practices and its ability to withstand outside influence when making staffing decisions.
What Comes Next for the Embattled Broadcaster?
With the Federal Court already ruling the termination unlawful, the ABC now faces:
- Ongoing legal costs as the case continues
- Potential additional compensation payments to Ms Lattouf
- Significant reputational damage
- Questions about editorial independence
- Scrutiny of employment practices
The $2.5 million price tag revealed today likely represents just the initial instalment in what could become one of the most costly employment disputes in Australian media history.
