Channel Nine’s biggest stars in the firing line as a bombshell report into network’s ‘toxic workplace’ culture is set to be handed down in explosive tell-all livestream

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As an ardent fan of Channel Nine, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions as I read about the upcoming release of the independent report into the network’s culture. The past few months have been a rollercoaster ride, filled with shocking allegations, departures of senior executives, and a company-wide reckoning that has left many of us fans on the edge of our seats.

As a lifestyle expert, I’m sharing this update: In a recent development, I’ve learned that Channel Nine has cautioned its employees about the imminent release of an independent report concerning the network’s newsroom culture. This revelation is set to unfold on Thursday, mere days before the broadcaster showcases its annual ‘up fronts’, aiming to captivate advertisers with their offerings.

Matt Stanton, temporarily leading the troubled media corporation, announced that employees would be informed about the results of the external audit, carried out by Intersection, prior to its publication on the company’s site, Nine’s website.

An independent inquiry was initiated by Mike Sneesby, the previous head of Nine, in June, after a series of harmful allegations concerning their disgraced news and current affairs leader, Darren Wick, had surfaced.

For over a decade, Wick, the head of our news division, departed from the company in March, due to allegations of sexual misconduct, intoxicated inappropriate advances, and severe unprofessional behavior.

Experiencing the unexpected exit of a key figure, along with the company’s response to the accusations, has set off a tumultuous wave within the organization, sparking a call-to-action from numerous influential figures in the industry. As a lifestyle expert, I encourage everyone to embrace this moment as an opportunity for transformation and progress, advocating for women’s rights and championing change.

In June, Karl Stefanovic convened an unexpected gathering of his network colleagues, which included Sarah Abo, Sylvia Jeffreys, and David Campbell, to address concerns about a perceived harmful work environment, or what he referred to as ‘toxic culture’.

According to reports, Stefanovic is said to have told his coworkers that men should aim for improvement within Nine, during a moving speech where he commended the women employees, calling them the “lifeblood” or “essence” of the media organization.

Following Wick’s exit, a series of high-ranking officials have chosen to leave as well, which includes none other than Mr. Sneesby, who tendered his resignation recently.

Following his resignation, it’s important to note that the previous chair of Nine, Peter Costello, also stepped down from the company following the scandal. This was after an incident where he allegedly pushed a reporter from The Australian to the ground when approached for comments about the Canberra airport saga.

The initial scope of the investigation focused on the culture within the company’s TV newsrooms during Wick’s tenure. However, it has now broadened to encompass Nine’s entire media conglomerate, covering not only its television but also its newspaper and radio sectors.

It’s clear that several prominent actors from the network submitted reviews, along with their co-stars, and the network’s higher-ups are eagerly anticipating the feedback on any issues raised.

Daily Mail Australia has received several private allegations concerning high-ranking male and female executives within Nine’s organization.

It’s thought that the report won’t point fingers at specific people but rather offer an overview, or “snapshot,” of the broader cultural problems within the company that require internal attention.

On Wednesday afternoon, Mr. Stanton emailed everyone stating that extra counselors will be available for employees should they need it, following the announcement of the review results. However, it’s clear that he has not yet familiarized himself with the details of the review.

In the email to the team, Mr. Stanton stated that the evaluation was thorough and served as a significant milestone on our journey to improve our company’s work environment.

As an ardent enthusiast, I can’t contain my excitement! Although some outside parties are showing curiosity, I feel it’s crucial that we, the team, get the scoop firsthand. That’s why we’ve arranged a special briefing tomorrow, exclusively for our dedicated employees, to discuss the Intersection report and share all the juicy details!

To help ease potential difficulties some team members might face during Intersection’s review, we’ve organized for our Employee Assistance Program, Converge, to be available on-site at various locations over the next five business days. This service is there for any private conversations or support you may need in a confidential setting.

The evaluation was thorough and significant for us, marking a crucial advancement in our ongoing efforts to enhance our company’s work environment.

Staff have been offered counselling and support in anticipation of the findings.  

Another email has been dispatched individually to each of the nine team members involved in the Intersection investigation, detailing the results and providing extra assistance if needed.

‘Dear review participant, This email is to let you know that our report on the independent Review of Nine Entertainment’s culture will be submitted to the organisation tomorrow, Thursday 17 October,’ the email states.

We believe that the results from the report will be distributed to everyone among us towards the end of today.

We truly appreciate your faith in us, as you shared some personal experiences with us. We understand that it wasn’t an easy task, and we deeply value your trust.

‘Your experiences have helped shape the report and its recommendations, and for that we thank you.

Reflecting on personal encounters or tales shared by others about unsuitable conduct at work can be upsetting.

‘Please do not hesitate to reach out for support if you should need it.’

The revelation of the results arrives at a challenging moment for Nine, occurring merely a week prior to their planned ‘Upfront’ presentation where they demonstrate their future programming lineup to prospective advertisers.

Instead of the traditional wine-filled gala night, we’re changing things up for next Thursday. It’ll now be a luncheon held in Sydney’s Carriageworks precinct instead.

Wick is alleged to have drunkenly groped up to a dozen women at the network.

Despite this, he was handed a reported million-dollar handshake when he left the company in March. 

In 2021, the individual who identified themselves as an alcoholic was granted permission to resume their job, following an incident where they were found driving with a blood-alcohol level over four times the legal limit.

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2024-10-16 11:11