Statement sent to by ACM MEAA Members to ACM Editorial Director Rod Quinn.
MEAA members at Australian Community Media (ACM) have endorsed a vote of no confidence in Antony Catalano.
We are disgusted and sickened about the allegations and welcome his forced leave of absence as Executive Chair of the Board.
However, this does not go far enough.
We cannot sit by while we report on violence and the deaths of women, which cause vicarious trauma for staff and communities, while these allegations stand.
As co-owner of ACM, a news organisation that reports on horrific domestic and family violence with truth, honesty, and respect, the allegations against Mr Catalano tarnish the reputations of hard-working staff.
Allegations of gendered violence against one of the two owners of our company undermine the trust of the communities we live and work in.
Violence against women is a scourge on our nation and one that must be eradicated. Our thoughts are with the alleged victim and those impacted.
We acknowledge Mr Catalano's self-admittance to rehabilitation seeking help for his mental health and substance abuse.
This case, like any serious case addressing allegations of gendered violence, requires rigorous reporting without fear or favour. Staff have expressed their disappointment that unlike the fearless court reporting we conduct each day, reporting on this matter within ACM has minimised extremely distressing allegations that impact families and communities.
ACM must cover this case independently with the same standards and rigour applied to every court story.
We call on management to ensure ongoing coverage is properly resourced as a matter of significant public interest.
