Jackie ‘O’ Henderson has accused ARN Media of failing to act on repeated complaints about Kyle Sandilands’ on-air behaviour, as part of Federal Court proceedings seeking more than $82 million in compensation.
Documents filed with the Federal Court allege Henderson raised concerns with senior executives months before the February 20 on-air incident that ended the pair’s long-running partnership, including multiple broadcasts in August and September 2025.
According to the statement of claim, Henderson warned ARN leadership, including then chairman Hamish McLennan and then chief executive Ciaran Davis, that the on-air dynamic was being perceived by listeners as an “abusive relationship”.
The filing outlines a series of alleged incidents, including an August 2025 broadcast where Sandilands made “offensive and degrading” comments about Henderson’s personal life, prompting her to briefly leave the studio.
Further disputes are alleged to have occurred in September, with Henderson raising concerns in text exchanges with KIIS head of network Derek Bargwanna, who indicated the matter had been escalated to senior leadership.
Hamish McLennan.
Alleged breach of workplace obligations
Henderson alleges Commonwealth Broadcasting Corporation, an ARN subsidiary, failed to provide a safe workplace and did not adequately manage psychosocial risks, breaching obligations under the Fair Work Act.
The claim states Henderson was willing to continue working with the network in a role outside the breakfast show, but her contract was terminated after she exercised her right to raise complaints.
Her lawyers also allege ARN’s ASX disclosure regarding her departure contained misleading statements, including claims she had been offered an alternative role.
February incident part of broader pattern
The February 20 broadcast, which ARN cited as the catalyst for ending both presenters’ contracts, is described in the filing as part of a broader pattern of behaviour known to executives.
Henderson alleges she contacted chief executive Michael Stephenson and chief content officer Kerri Elstub following the incident, describing Sandilands’ remarks as “unfair, inappropriate and completely unprovoked”.
A formal complaint was lodged on February 26, alleging ARN had not implemented adequate measures to minimise risks to her health and safety, including psychosocial hazards.
ARN CEO Michael Stephenson
Damages and parallel legal action
Henderson is seeking at least $82.25 million in damages, including lost earnings, reputational harm and psychological distress.
Sandilands has also filed separate proceedings against ARN following the termination of his contract for what the company described as “serious misconduct”.
Combined, the claims exceed $170 million, more than double ARN’s market capitalisation. The company’s share price opened at $0.24 on Wednesday, down from levels above $1 following the duo’s $200 million contract announcement in 2023.
ARN has said it will defend both proceedings. The matter is scheduled to return to the Federal Court before Justice Angus Stewart on April 24.
Main image: Jackie ‘O’ Henderson