Jackie 'O' Henderson has launched legal action in the Federal Court seeking at least $82.25 million in compensation for wrongful termination of her 10-year contract with ARN Media, the owner of Kiis FM. The former co-host of the Kyle and Jackie O Show alleges she was sacked after complaining about bullying by her on-air partner Kyle Sandilands.
The claim, filed against Commonwealth Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), a subsidiary of ARN that holds the licence for Kiis 106.5 Sydney, argues that the termination constituted adverse action under the Fair Work Act. Henderson complained to ARN on 20 February about Sandilands allegedly bullying her, both on that date and prior to an on-air incident that led to her walking out of the studio.
On 20 February, Sandilands mocked Henderson's interest in astrology, causing her to leave the studio in distress. She subsequently raised concerns about her 'psychosocial health and safety' while working with Sandilands. ARN terminated her contract on 3 March, announcing the breakfast show would be taken off-air immediately.
Henderson's legal team contends that the termination was in response to her exercising workplace rights by making a complaint, in alleged contravention of section 340 of the Fair Work Act. The lawsuit also claims ARN's 3 March announcement contained misleading and deceptive statements under the Australian Consumer Law.
ARN Media disputes the claims and has stated it will defend the proceedings. The company confirmed the filing in an ASX statement on Tuesday, noting that the matter has been lodged in the Federal Court. Sandilands has also filed his own claim against ARN, with his first hearing held days before Henderson's action.
