Nine sets up hotline: “People who have been treated poorly will be heard”

Nine has set-up a phone line for an independent counselling service to report instances of bullying and harassment for staff, and for past staff who wish to address historic behaviour.

Former Nine employees with complaints will receive counselling on a strictly confidential basis and at no cost to them.

In an email to staff CEO Hugh Marks wrote, “In light of the appalling allegations this week of sexual assault, harassment and misconduct by Don Burke I wanted to write to all staff to reaffirm Nine’s commitment to maintaining a culture that is inclusive, supportive and respectful.

“But importantly it is fundamental that as a team we all share some simple expectations. And it is in this context that we all accept our role in ensuring we have and maintain a culture that has zero tolerance of inappropriate workplace behaviour. Everyone is entitled to come to work at Nine confident that our workplace is safe and that inappropriate behaviour will be dealt with effectively.

“Nine has a number of policies and procedures in place to ensure expectations in relation to behaviour in the workplace are clear. We also have clear guidelines on how we manage grievances, misconduct and support staff if any such concerns arise. Your team leaders and Nine’s HR team have the resources and tools needed to respond effectively and follow clear guidelines when dealing with misconduct, harassment, discrimination and bullying issues. There are also clear procedures to be followed if someone has a grievance to report.”

Nine has offered a confidential line with Converge International to deal with any challenges, concerns or issues that may be affecting staff at work or at home.

Policies and guidelines will apply to everyone associated with Nine, including staff, contractors, sub-contractors, agents, consultants and temporary staff, past employees can also address historic issues.

“As much as we might like to, sometimes we unfortunately cannot rewrite history. But we can and will take steps to ensure that former employees, perhaps with old grievances, are supported. So we have set up a unique phone line for them to call 1300 554 818 and will provide an independent counselling service to report instances of past behaviour they would like addressed. Former Nine employees with complaints simply provide their personal contact details and HR will follow up directly on a strictly confidential basis. The counselling will be provided at no cost to them and Nine will support the person to work through any issues that relate to their time at Nine,” he continued.

Marks recently said he was sure there were problems in the past that would emerge, but the current climate was a supportive one.

“It’s my job as CEO, and that of your senior leaders, to ensure that people who have been treated poorly will be heard, and that they will get appropriate support if they need it. Any matters which are raised and require further action will be addressed appropriately either internally or, if required, externally of Nine.

“This is an important issue for all Australian workplaces. I believe Nine can take a strong leadership role in our industry to make sure we do the right thing by our people, now, and into the future.”