2DayFM Rape Allegations: Lawyers Called In On Industry’s “Open Secret”

Former 2DayFM staffer, Blake Phillips, has engaged lawyers to represent his interests following explosive allegations he was raped by a senior executive.

As reported on B&T on Tuesday, Phillips used a social media post to claim he was raped by a senior male executive when he worked at Southern Cross Austereo (SCA) in 2013, claims now being investigated by NSW Police.

Claims have also surfaced that the alleged sexual assault was well-known in industry circles, however, had been “concealed”.

At the time, SCA dealt with the issue, terminating the man’s employment who, it’s alleged, now works at a rival network. It’s understood that the executive remains a “significant figure in the radio industry”.

The Australian is reporting that Phillips has engaged Harmers Workplace Lawyers who famously represented Amber Harrison in her case against Channel Seven following her affair with CEO, Tim Worner.

According to the report, Harmers had agreed to represent Phillips but it’s unclear whether it will be a paid, no-win-no-fee or pro bono basis.

Meanwhile, radio host Mel Greig – who was at the centre of the now infamous royal prank call in 2012 – has said that Phillips’ rape allegation were well-known in the industry.

Greig, who now presents a radio show in Wollongong, has used a Facebook post to suggest that many people knew of the rape allegations and the alleged perpetrator.

“By doing this I’m giving myself that final black mark through my name in terms of working in commercial radio again as it will be seen as betrayal,” Greig wrote in the post.

“The truth is the radio industry have whispered about the alleged attack for years, someone’s tragic encounter has been workplace gossip. I’m not going to be ashamed to support someone who took every ounce of strength to share his story, he wants to move forward and he deserves to regain his life. So many people have concealed this story.”

Meanwhile, former SCA on-air hosts have come out in support of Phillips.

Presenter Jo Stanley tweeted: “Blake I’m so sorry – that this happened and that you’ve been in so much pain for so long. I support you. I hear you and believe you. Your courage is immeasurable. I hope you know you are surrounded by love.”

While former Kyle and Jackie O newsreader, Geoff Field, tweeted: “I’m so so sorry to hear about this Blake. Your bravery and courage is amazing. Stay strong.”

Phillips himself has used a blog post to reveal the trauma the incident caused: “Navigating years of suicide, medicating with self and prescription substances, among endless varieties of therapy to combat relentless anxious madness is no longer a worthwhile battle.”

Advertise with us

Please login with linkedin to comment

2DayFM Blake Phillips Southern Cross Austereo