Author and journalist Peter FitzSimons testified in a Sydney court on Thursday regarding allegations of indecent assault and sexual touching against talkback radio host Alan Jones. Jones faces 22 charges, eight of which relate to a former radio staffer who alleges unwanted advances, including groping and kissing.
FitzSimons stated that the staffer, who remained anonymous, confided in him about the alleged assaults, becoming visibly upset and stating he was "revolted" by Jones's actions. The journalist recounted that the staffer described Jones as "the most important, the most powerful person at 2GB," Sydney's top-rated radio station at the time. The staffer alleged that during a car ride, Jones placed his hand on his knee and moved it to his groin, an advance the staffer pushed away. FitzSimons told the court that the staffer appeared "completely emotionally traumatised" by the incident.
The former staffer also recounted an incident in a lift at Jones's home where he was allegedly pushed against a wall, groped, and kissed romantically. FitzSimons testified that the staffer later expressed panic and distress over the allegations and his inability to pursue them further.
During the proceedings, FitzSimons reportedly stared at Jones, who appeared to avoid eye contact, focusing instead on documents. Jones, 85, has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which are alleged to have occurred between 2003 and 2020 in Sydney and the NSW Southern Highlands. His defense has characterized the allegations from six complainants as false and motivated by personal grievances.
The trial, which is expected to last four months, continues. Resources for those affected by sexual assault are available through 1800 RESPECT and the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service.