Veteran TV Reporter Sues Network Seven Over Unlawful Dismissal Amid Scandal and New Allegations
August 30, 2024Ovadia has denied all allegations against him, describing them as baseless and a tactic to intimidate him.
After a recent federal court hearing, Ovadia reiterated his stance that the claims are malicious and false.
Although Seven opposed Ovadia's request for mediation, the court ordered both parties to attend mediation in October.
If mediation is successful, it may lead to a settlement before the trial, which is scheduled for case management on February 10, 2025.
Veteran TV reporter Robert Ovadia is suing Network Seven and its news director, Anthony De Ceglie, after being unlawfully dismissed on June 21.
Ovadia was suspended in late June during an internal investigation into allegations of inappropriate behavior.
The court learned that Ovadia was dismissed due to inappropriate images sent to a former colleague, including a genital image.
Since his dismissal, 13 additional women have come forward with complaints against Ovadia, prompting Seven Network to defend its decision to terminate him without notice.
Seven's barrister, Vanja Bulut, stated that these new complaints are under investigation and could justify Ovadia's termination.
Bulut indicated that the later revelations could strengthen Seven's defense against Ovadia's breach of contract claim.
Federal Court Justice Elizabeth Raper has emphasized the potential value of mediation in resolving the dispute.
Ovadia's lawyer raised concerns about the redactions and lack of detail in Seven's documentation regarding the additional allegations.
Summary based on 3 sources
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Sources
The Guardian • Aug 29, 2024
Seven alleges 13 women have made complaints about former Sydney reporter Robert Ovadia, court hearsThe Sydney Morning Herald • Aug 29, 2024
Thirteen women come forward with claims about Robert Ovadia, court toldnews.com.au — Australia’s leading news site • Aug 29, 2024
13 women emerge with shock journo claims