A Federal Court has found that ABC unlawfully dismissed journalist Antoinette Lattouf in 2023, primarily to appease pro-Israel lobbyists and avoid political backlash, breaching employment laws and the broadcaster's own agreements.

The court ordered ABC to pay Lattouf A$150,000 in penalties and an additional A$70,000 in damages, emphasizing the severity of the breach and the importance of safeguarding employee rights.

Lattouf was dismissed shortly after posting a social media critique of Israel's military campaign in Gaza, but the court found she was not explicitly instructed to refrain from posting about the war.

The court highlighted that her firing was based on suspicion and internal panic rather than concrete evidence, and criticized the ABC for not properly investigating the leak of her termination.

Justice Rangiah criticized the ABC for undermining its independence by succumbing to external political and lobbyist pressures, which compromised its reputation as a trusted public broadcaster.

While the ABC admitted to unlawful actions, it argued for a lower penalty, but the court imposed a penalty three times higher, citing the seriousness of the breach.

Lattouf stated her case was about accountability and protecting public broadcasting integrity, not money, and has called for a penalty of up to $350,000 to serve as a deterrent.

The court also noted that pressures faced by the ABC are likely to recur, and although the broadcaster has taken steps to prevent future breaches, its response was seen as late and insufficient.

ABC's managing director Hugh Marks acknowledged the court's findings, issued a formal apology, and committed to reflecting on the organization's handling of the case.

The case has sparked public outrage and debates about the ABC’s support for diverse employees, especially given Lattouf's history as a media contributor and activist on issues like racism and mental health.

Lattouf has since co-founded a media literacy company, ETTE, signaling her ongoing engagement in media and advocacy work.

The court's decision underscores the importance of maintaining journalistic independence and the risks posed by external political influences on media organizations.