The former chair of the ABC, Ita Buttrose, has challenged the broadcaster’s decision to keep casual radio host Antoinette Lattouf on air, despite management concluding her comments on Israel’s actions in Gaza did not violate impartiality rules. Lattouf began hosting the Mornings show on ABC Radio Sydney for a week in December 2023 but was dismissed after three days due to an Instagram post referencing Human Rights Watch’s claims about Israel’s use of starvation in the conflict.
A Federal Court hearing regarding her dismissal is paused after expert testimonies about the circumstances of her termination revealed substantial complaints against her. Buttrose admitted she sought Lattouf’s removal before the Instagram incident, having received a significant number of complaints suggesting Lattouf was promoting pro-Palestinian views.
As discussions unfolded, Buttrose expressed concerns over the backlash from complaints and questioned the managing director about Lattouf’s position. Despite internal support for her retention, Buttrose later accepted a decision from management to proceed with a “managed exit” for Lattouf. Lattouf contends her firing was politically motivated and influenced by pro-Israeli lobbyists, alleging discrimination based on her views and background. She is pursuing compensation while the ABC maintains that she breached directions regarding discussing the Israel-Gaza situation. The case resumes in court on February 27 for closing arguments.