The father of recently dismissed Channel Seven reporter Inga Neilsen is reportedly facing accusations of trolling his daughter's former female colleagues on social media, a situation that has drawn scrutiny due to its contradiction with his public criticism of the network's workplace environment. Peter Neilsen allegedly posted a series of critical comments on Channel Seven's social media pages in the weeks following his daughter's departure.
Inga Neilsen accepted a voluntary redundancy last month as part of the broadcaster's recent job cuts. According to The Australian, her father, Peter Neilsen, is accused of targeting female journalists, with remarks reportedly including comments about "too much Botox and fillers," suggesting one reporter "would turn milk sour," and referring to another as "the work experience girl." Veteran reporter Patrick Burns was also allegedly labeled "a dreadful reporter."
In contrast, Seven journalist Andrew Denney was reportedly praised by Mr. Neilsen as "a good reporter." These alleged comments have raised questions given that Mr. Neilsen has also been vocal in criticizing Channel Seven's workplace culture. He reportedly claimed the broadcaster is "a men's club" and suggested that female employees faced pressure to "put up or shut up" regarding workplace bullying and sexual harassment.
Mr. Neilsen also reportedly called for an investigation into the broadcaster, describing the workplace as "very toxic." Insiders cited by The Australian have questioned the apparent inconsistency between his public statements about alleged bullying and his private comments directed at female journalists, with one source suggesting that Channel Seven executives should consider blocking his accounts and taking action.
Channel Seven management is reportedly aware of the situation and is monitoring the comments. Mr. Neilsen is identified as the principal of Peak Hill Central School in regional New South Wales, an institution whose stated values include respect, responsibility, and a zero-tolerance approach to bullying.
This controversy follows recent attention on Inga Neilsen herself, who made headlines earlier this year after off-air footage surfaced of a heated exchange with a cameraman during a live cross. The incident garnered significant discussion within the network.