Radio host Jackie 'O' Henderson is set to begin her legal battle with the Australian Radio Network (ARN) over her $100 million contract on October 12. Henderson launched a Fair Work claim against ARN in April after her KIIS FM breakfast radio show was canceled in March, following a significant on-air argument with co-host Kyle Sandilands.
An interlocutory hearing, which addresses specific procedural issues, is scheduled for August 24. Court documents indicate that Henderson will be required to undergo a medical examination as part of the legal proceedings. This examination is to be conducted by a medical expert selected by ARN. The network is then required to submit an affidavit from this expert on August 6, according to The Daily Telegraph.
Henderson alleges that ARN failed to provide a safe workplace and minimize psychosocial risks after she made complaints about Sandilands. Her representatives have confirmed they will continue with the court case, even after Sandilands recently settled with ARN for $12.09 million.
Sources suggest that Henderson's claim for $82 million may result in a payout less than Sandilands' settlement. Sandilands' settlement, which includes $1.5 million in advertising contra, is understood to be roughly equivalent to one year's salary under his contract. Henderson's contract may not include similar add-ons, potentially placing her settlement between $7.5 million and $10 million.
At the core of the dispute is ARN's assertion that Henderson initiated the end of "The Kyle & Jackie O Show" by raising concerns about Sandilands. Henderson has refuted this, denying she resigned and challenging ARN's previous statement that she had given notice of her inability to work with her co-host. The parties also disagree on whether an alternative program was offered to Henderson, a claim her legal team denies.
Former radio boss James Cridland commented on the situation, suggesting that Henderson might opt for a settlement, considering Sandilands' outcome. However, he noted that Henderson's situation might lead to a different settlement agreement due to her perceived treatment by the network.