A Sydney-based radio presenter has been awarded A$12m in damages after a commercial broadcaster unlawfully terminated his contract. The New South Wales Supreme Court ruled that the radio station acted in breach of contract when it dismissed the host in 2020 following a series of controversial on-air remarks. The decision underscores the legal protections afforded to talent agreements under Australian law.
Justice John Sackar found that the station's decision to void the agreement was not justified by the terms of the contract, which required a specific process for termination. The presenter, who had been with the network for over two decades, argued that the termination caused significant financial loss, including lost earnings and endorsement opportunities. The judgment is expected to have implications for the media industry, where talent contracts often include clauses regarding conduct and termination.
Neither party has commented on the possibility of an appeal.
