Channel Seven, one of Australia’s prominent media networks, is currently navigating a significant period of legal challenge, facing a series of lawsuits from a diverse range of current and former employees. This escalating legal pressure, encompassing claims from long-serving production staff to high-profile journalists, paints a picture of growing workplace disputes that could have substantial implications for the network’s reputation and financial stability. At the forefront of these recent developments is a veteran scriptwriter from the highly popular and long-running drama, Home and Away, whose legal action underscores a broader pattern of discontent within the organisation.

Fiona Bozic, a script producer and scriptwriter whose association with Seven spans more than two decades, recently lodged a Fair Work claim in the Federal Court of Australia. Her name notably continues to appear on the credits of Home and Away, signifying her integral role in the show’s creative process. Bozic’s action, filed under breach of general protections provisions, indicates allegations related to workplace rights, freedom of association, or protection against adverse action by an employer. Represented by Thrive Workplace Consulting & Legal, Bozic’s professional background, as detailed on her LinkedIn profile, highlights her extensive responsibilities. She is primarily tasked with overseeing the creation of “engaging, creative and compelling storylines” for programs including Home and Away, and previously contributed to Network Ten’s Neighbours. Her profile also states her involvement in developing diverse story themes, specifically mentioning sensitive topics such as domestic violence and mental health trauma, and her responsibility for crafting detailed plots for five episodes a week. This includes structuring episodes, creating characters, and recruiting script department personnel, all while working closely with a wide array of internal stakeholders, from executives to production teams. Her prominent position within the creative hierarchy of Home and Away, a flagship production, lends considerable weight to her claim against the network, making it a particularly significant case amidst Seven’s mounting legal woes.

Bozic’s lawsuit is far from an isolated incident; rather, it forms part of a notable trend. Producer Matthew McGrane, who has dedicated approximately 23 years to Seven, most recently with the Sunrise program, is also engaged in Federal Court proceedings against the network. While the precise details of his claim remain undisclosed, it stems from a severe accident in which he fell from his wheelchair, sustaining grievous injuries. The incident occurred as McGrane was travelling from Seven’s Sydney office to complete a shift at home, an arrangement he had with management. As a wheelchair user for over two decades, McGrane had secured an agreement allowing him to leave work earlier, at 9pm, to access public transport before it ceased operations at 11pm, and then continue his duties remotely. However, just three months into this revised schedule, he suffered a debilitating fall. He recounted hitting a gap in the footpath in the dark and rain, leading to him being thrown from his wheelchair. The resulting injuries were horrific: a broken lower arm, and his face dragged along the pavement, causing his teeth to penetrate his lip. In excruciating pain, he sustained muscle avulsions that required surgical reattachment, leaving him with only one functional arm and unable to care for himself for ten weeks. Despite the injury occurring while he was rostered on, Seven informed his insurer that no formal agreement existed for his split shift, complicating his workers’ compensation claim. The network has publicly stated its rejection of McGrane’s claims and its intent to defend its position vigorously.

Adding to the litany of legal challenges, journalist Amelia Saw initiated Federal Court action against Seven last year under the Fair Work Act. Her claim alleged exposure to a hostile working environment during her time at Spotlight in 2022. While the specifics of the hostile environment were not detailed publicly, such claims often involve allegations of bullying, harassment, or a psychologically unsafe workplace. Seven “strongly and categorically” refuted Saw’s allegations, but the matter was ultimately settled in January, indicating a resolution was reached out of court. Separately, Walkley Award-winning crime reporter Robert Ovadia also commenced Federal Court proceedings for wrongful dismissal against Seven, following his termination in June of the previous year based on alleged inappropriate conduct. Ovadia consistently denied any wrongdoing. Despite his initial legal action, he later withdrew his case, citing the substantial financial cost and profound emotional toll involved in pursuing litigation against a large corporation, a common hurdle for individuals seeking justice.

Further complicating Seven’s legal landscape is the defamation lawsuit brought by former Spotlight producer Taylor Auerbach. Auerbach’s claim centres on allegations that the network disseminated disparaging and false statements concerning his role in securing a controversial interview with accused rapist Bruce Lehrmann. Auerbach asserts that these alleged statements caused him to be shunned and vilified within the industry and public perception. Seven, in response, has affirmed its intention to “strenuously defend its position” against Auerbach’s allegations.

These interwoven legal battles present a complex and multifaceted challenge for Channel Seven. With various cases involving different aspects of employment law—from workplace safety and compensation to wrongful dismissal and defamation—the network faces significant legal expenditure, potential damages, and an ongoing public relations challenge. The sheer volume of lawsuits from both long-term and high-profile staff members, particularly from a veteran of a beloved show like Home and Away, raises questions about the internal culture and practices at Seven. The network has largely maintained a consistent “no comment” stance, citing that these matters are before the courts. However, as the interlocutory hearing for McGrane’s matter is set for August and Auerbach’s case listed for a case management hearing in October, the legal proceedings continue to unfold, promising further developments that will undoubtedly shape Channel Seven’s future and its relationship with its workforce.