Lawyers representing Alan Jones have announced their intention to take legal action against Nine Newspapers and reporter Kate McClymont, calling the allegations of indecent assault “demonstrably false.” The legal team for Mr. Jones stated that they have gathered substantial factual information that contradicts the alleged pattern of conduct, and have retained senior counsel to commence defamation proceedings.
Published on the front page of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, a 4000-word article accused Mr. Jones of indecently assaulting four young men without their consent. However, none of the men made official statements to the police. The allegations also mentioned that Mr. Jones used his position of power to prey on young men by groping or inappropriately touching them without their consent.
Mr. Jones’ former colleague Ben Fordham addressed the story, stating that the accused is innocent until proven otherwise, and that the allegations have impacted several people, including a former staffer. Ray Hadley, another 2GB host, revealed that one of the men in the story had previously informed him about the allegations but requested that Mr. Hadley not pursue the matter.
Nine Entertainment, the owner of both The Sydney Morning Herald and 2GB, acknowledged the distress the story may cause current or former employees, emphasizing their commitment to creating a supportive and respectful workplace.
Alan Jones, a prominent conservative voice and former radio host, has vehemently denied the allegations. After retiring from radio, he continued to host programs on other platforms and is also a contributor to The Epoch Times. Additionally, Jones has a background as a coach and former senior advisor to a Prime Minister.