Judge Rules ABC Unlawfully Terminated Antoinette Lattouf's Employment

In a landmark decision, Justice Darryl Rangiah of the Federal Court has ruled that the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) unlawfully terminated the employment of journalist Antoinette Lattouf, awarding her $70,000 in compensation. The case, which has drawn significant public attention, centers on allegations that Lattouf was dismissed in response to complaints regarding her political opinions related to the Israel-Gaza conflict.

The ruling, delivered on June 25, 2025, found that the ABC acted against the provisions of the Fair Work Act, which prohibits employers from terminating employees based on their political opinions. Justice Rangiah stated that Lattouf was dismissed amid a coordinated campaign of complaints against her, primarily orchestrated by pro-Israel lobbyists. "The complaints asserted she had expressed antisemitic views, lacked impartiality, and was unsuitable to present any program for the ABC," Rangiah said during the ruling.

Lattouf, who had been a fill-in host for ABC Radio Sydney’s Mornings program, was removed from her position just two days into her stint in December 2023, shortly after posting on social media about the Israel-Gaza conflict. Her comments, which referenced a report from Human Rights Watch, sparked backlash that led to her swift dismissal. According to Lattouf, she felt she was "punished for my political opinion" and indicated that she would have more to say in the future.

Lattouf's legal representative, Josh Bornstein, a principal at Maurice Blackburn, highlighted that the court's findings indicated the ABC capitulated to external lobbying efforts. "This unlawful decision goes right to the top of the ABC," Bornstein emphasized, suggesting systemic issues within the organization regarding its handling of employee rights and external pressures.

The court's decision also noted that Lattouf was not granted the opportunity to respond to the allegations before her dismissal. Justice Rangiah remarked that the ABC had breached its enterprise agreement by failing to provide her with the chance to defend herself, a fundamental right under employment law.

Following the ruling, the ABC maintained that Lattouf was not unlawfully sacked, asserting that her employment was concluded as planned after five days and that she was compensated for her full scheduled work. However, Rangiah refuted this claim, stating that her exit was abrupt and not in line with standard employment practices.

The case has opened discussions about the pressures faced by media organizations in Australia, particularly in handling sensitive political issues. It also raises questions about the intersection of journalism, personal beliefs, and employer responses in contemporary media environments. Lattouf's situation underscores the ongoing debates surrounding freedom of speech, the responsibilities of public broadcasters, and the impact of public opinion on journalistic integrity.

As the legal proceedings continue with a separate hearing scheduled for pecuniary penalties, the implications of this case may resonate beyond the courtroom, potentially influencing policies and practices within the ABC and similar organizations across Australia. The outcome could also inspire broader discussions about the protections afforded to journalists and the importance of safeguarding their rights, especially when navigating contentious political landscapes.