Sacked Seven reporter Robert Ovadia has launched legal action in the Federal Court against the broadcaster and its head of news, months after being fired over allegations of inappropriate behaviour.
Mr Ovadia, who had worked at Seven for more than 20 years, was dismissed from his role in June.
At the time, the network said an investigation was underway into allegations of inappropriate behavior by Ovadia, which he strongly denies.
Late on Friday, Ovadia filed a lawsuit in the Federal Court against Seven Network and its head of news, Anthony De Ceglie.
He is being represented by John Laxon of Sydney-based firm Laxon Lex.
Attempts were made to contact Mr Laxon on Sunday evening.
“Seven is not in a position to comment on Mr Ovadia’s commencement of legal proceedings as the matter is now before the Federal Court, other than to say that Seven will defend its position in this matter,” a Seven spokeswoman said.
‘As previously noted, Robert Ovadia is no longer employed by Seven.’
Former Channel Seven journalist Robert Ovadia is suing his former network and its news chief in Federal Court
‘Seven takes any allegations of inappropriate behaviour in the workplace very seriously.
“We handle complaints confidentially and address any proven violations decisively.”
Mr Ovadia, a two-time Walkley Award winner, was a veteran on-air talent at the network and worked as an investigative journalist and fill-in presenter in the Sydney newsroom before being sacked.
In his own statement responding to Seven’s announcement of the investigation, Mr Ovadia said he would defend the “malicious” allegations.
“Siete has told me that no current or former colleagues have filed any complaints against me,” he said.
‘As far as I know, the company has not fired me.
‘Any suggestion that I have behaved inappropriately at any time is false, malicious and will be defended.’
The veteran and award-winning television reporter was sacked in June after Seven confirmed they had launched an investigation into allegations of inappropriate behaviour.
On her Instagram profile, Ovadia shared messages of support from several colleagues following the announcement of the investigation.
A message, shared in her latest story, thanks her for her “career guidance, warmth and kindness.”
Another recognizes him as “one of my greatest supporters throughout my journalistic career.”
“His respectful, honest and kind nature has made him not only a trusted mentor but also a good friend whom I can always call upon for advice,” the message continues.
“He was a true gentleman to me and the many young women he worked with, consistently demonstrating the utmost respect and professionalism.”
