Just days after News Corp Australia executive chairman Michael Miller warned staff that “inappropriate behaviour has consequences”, it has emerged that the media giant is investigating a third drinks “incident”.
According to rival publicaiton The Australian Financial Review, News Corp is investigating complaints relating to an incident at the end-of-year drinks for The Australian, which took place in Surry Hills last Thursday (the 8th of December). Both senior and junior staff were meeting for drinks at the event.
The Financial Review reported that a senior editor at The Australian attended News Corp headquarters in Sydney on Wednesday to meet with HR over an incident during end-of-year drinks at a pub in Surry Hills.
“A thorough investigation is under way after complaints were made following an informal end-of-year function,” a News Corp spokesman said in a statement. “No conclusion has yet been reached and our priority is for the fair treatment and well-being of all those involved.”
The news comes as News Corp grapples with two other high profile incidents. Back in November reports emerged that The Australian’s editor-in-chief Chris Dore stepped down from his role after making lewd comments and this week Chris Smith was sacked from Sky news and 2GB after behaving inappropriately at Christmas work party.
Earlier this week, The Daily Mail reported that News Corp’s CEO Michael Miller sent around a stern email to staff that read, “As we approach the end of the year, the formal and informal parties and team gatherings are rolling in. And as we anticipate those events, I want to say something as plainly as possible,
“Do not let a bad choice you make at the party undermine all of the good work you have achieved at News.
“We enjoy each other’s company and treat people fairly. We have a great camaraderie that helps drive the success that we have enjoyed through these last tough years.
“So please enjoy your get-together in the spirit of goodwill, good cheer, and yes, good manners.
“Remember that inappropriate behaviour has consequences. We have all the right to celebrate with workmates, and I urge you to make this occasion to remember and not regret.”
