SBS MEAA House Committee statement: Addressing racism and bullying at SBS

In light of the Janke Report at the ABC and the more recent revelations arising from the review of workplace practices and culture at Nine Entertainment, the SBS MEAA House Committee call for increased transparency regarding SBS’s handling of workplace issues, specifically the investigation into allegations of bullying and racism commissioned by Managing Director James Taylor in 2020 but never released publicly or to staff.

Recent years at SBS have been marked by a series of internal upheavals and allegations of discriminatory practices, affecting numerous staff, particularly those from diverse backgrounds. Alarming reports have surfaced during this period regarding the mistreatment of Indigenous and multicultural staff. These issues, despite the Taylor-commissioned investigation, have not yet been fully addressed or resolved.

Racism and bullying are not issues of the past—they are ongoing challenges at SBS. Staff continue to face these issues and the current culture requires urgent examination and action. We urge SBS to commission a new independent review into workplace discrimination and cultural inclusion, to ensure it is accountable.

Additionally, the SBS House Committee calls on management to stand by SBS’s workplace values of embracing difference, engaging and participating fully, and looking out for each other by releasing the Taylor-commissioned report in full and agreeing to consult with staff on actions taken to address its findings.

We stand in solidarity with those who have experienced racism and bullying across the media industry and will continue to advocate for a workplace where all employees feel valued and respected.