Is Australian media finally ready to address its power imbalance?

*The anonymous author of this article worked behind the scenes at a major network. They have asked us to protect their identity.

With sensationalist headlines circling one of Australia’s most prominent radio personalities, isn’t it time we addressed the unhealthy power dynamics that have plagued Australian media for far too long?

For decades, commercial media giants have poured resources into a select few marquee names, creating an environment where talent is elevated to untouchable heights while those behind the scenes bear the brunt of the work with little recognition or reward. The growing divide between these two groups has fostered a toxic culture, one where bad behaviour often goes unchecked—and sometimes, even celebrated.

For those lucky enough to work with “one of the good ones,” it might seem manageable—until your position on the pecking order shifts. The harsh reality is that the very people championing mental health and kindness are sometimes the same individuals perpetuating the most insidious forms of bullying and aggression. It’s an uncomfortable truth that remains under-discussed in an industry where image is everything.

On some of Australia’s most successful radio shows, the disparities are stark. For the inner circle—the chosen few who bask in the talent’s favour—life comes with perks: free lunches, exclusive gifts, and invitations to high-profile events. But for those on the periphery, the reality is much bleaker. Despite being part of the team, these individuals are relegated to carrying the workload without acknowledgment or opportunity for advancement. For them, interaction with on-air talent is often limited to moments of reprimand, delivered with a demand for grovelling over minor mistakes.

Reports from producers of major breakfast shows highlight environments where fear is the primary motivator. Mistakes are met with public shaming, and burnout is seen as collateral damage in the pursuit of ever-higher ratings. The divide between the “haves” and “have-nots” within teams is both systemic and deliberate, creating a culture where stress and alienation are inevitable for those not in the inner circle.

Yet this spectrum of mistreatment isn’t confined to passive aggression or structural inequities. Allegations against some of the most powerful figures in Australian radio reveal another layer of harm—one that includes direct physical aggression and assault. Victims of these behaviours, often silenced by the towering influence of their perpetrators, bear scars that extend far beyond their professional lives. Recent headlines stand as a chilling reminder of how far the abuse of power can reach.

The irony is hard to ignore. As radio struggles to adapt to the digital era, much of its downfall can be traced to an unwillingness to evolve beyond archaic power structures. The unchecked egos of a few, paired with the exploitation of many, have created an industry at odds with the values of collaboration, inclusivity, and well-being that resonate with today’s audiences.

The toll this takes isn’t just emotional—it’s physical. New research continues to demonstrate the devastating effects of chronic stress on the body, yet the demands placed on behind-the-scenes staff are relentless. In many cases, those at the top wield their power unchecked, leaving producers, editors, and assistants to carry the mental and emotional weight of toxic work environments.

It’s time to ask difficult questions: How long will media giants continue to reward behaviour that tears down teams rather than builds them up? How much longer will they ignore the workers within their own ranks in favour of inflating the egos of a few untouchable stars? And when will we stop excusing the burnout of behind-the-scenes workers as a necessary by-product of “great content”?

The question isn’t whether we can do better—it’s whether we’ll choose to.