Broadcaster Ends Contract With Reporter Over Podcast Appearance
A reporter's contract was terminated after an internal review found an external podcast appearance violated editorial policies. The two-episode series featured a former criminal figure and ended amid disputes over payment.
The Sydney Morning HeraldA reporter who worked on a current affairs program had his contract terminated after an internal investigation determined he had breached editorial policies by appearing on an external podcast. The investigation began after the first episode aired in September last year.
The podcast was co-hosted with a person who described himself as having an extensive criminal history and was sponsored by an online casino.
The review examined the reporter's external work request and the podcast appearance. Two sources familiar with the matter said the inquiry did not extend to later disputes between the two hosts. A spokesperson for the organization stated that the reporter no longer works there and declined to comment on individual staff matters.
Background The reporter joined the organization in 2021 and moved to the current affairs program in 2023. He had previously produced reports on drug trafficking and organized crime. The podcast ended after two episodes following a disagreement over payment.
The co-host publicly alleged that the reporter had not disclosed the paid appearance to his employer. Police received a report last year regarding alleged threats passed to a YouTuber but took no action. The reporter denied any wrongdoing at the time.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
3 events- September last year
Reporter launched two-episode podcast with former criminal figure.
1 sourceThe Sydney Morning Herald - October last year
Organization began internal review of external work request.
1 sourceThe Sydney Morning Herald - Seven months later
Reporter's contract was terminated following policy breach finding.
1 sourceThe Sydney Morning Herald
Potential Impact
- 01
Reporter loses employment at the organization.
- 02
Podcast series discontinued after two episodes.
Transparency Panel
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