Who Owns Channel 9?

As a television network, Channel 9's sustainability and ethics considerations are primarily related to journalistic standards, content responsibility, and the environmental impact of broadcasting operations. Channel 9 operates under Nine Entertainment's corporate ESG framework.

Nine Entertainment publishes sustainability information in its annual report, covering environmental, social, and governance topics. The company's environmental initiatives include energy efficiency in studio and office facilities, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing of newsprint for its publishing operations. Nine reports that its newsprint is sourced from pine plantations with no old-growth forest content for over 20 years. However, Nine does not publish specific carbon emissions data or science-based targets for its broadcasting operations.

Channel 9's most significant ethical responsibilities relate to journalistic standards and content regulation. The network operates under the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) regulatory framework, which sets standards for broadcast content, advertising, and news accuracy. Channel 9's news and current affairs programs are subject to the Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) Journalists' Code of Ethics.

In 2023, Nine Entertainment faced a workplace culture review following allegations of inappropriate behavior and toxic culture at some of its television programs. The company commissioned an independent review conducted by Intersection Consulting, which found systemic issues in workplace culture. Nine implemented reforms including mandatory training, improved reporting mechanisms, and leadership changes. The review and its findings were made public, and Nine has reported on progress in implementing recommendations.

Channel 9 does not hold B Corp certification, cruelty-free certification, or other consumer-facing sustainability certifications, as these are not applicable to a television network.

Ben Roberts-Smith Defamation Case (2023): Channel 9's current affairs program "60 Minutes" and Nine Entertainment's newspapers (The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age) published reports alleging that former Australian soldier Ben Roberts-Smith committed war crimes in Afghanistan. Roberts-Smith sued Nine Entertainment for defamation in a case that ran from 2021 to June 2023. Federal Court Justice Anthony Besanko dismissed the defamation case, finding that the allegations of war crimes were substantially true. Nine Entertainment incurred significant legal costs defending the case. In H1 FY26, Nine reported a one-off net benefit of A$6.3 million following finalization of the case. This was a landmark case for Australian media and journalism, affirming the defense of truth in defamation proceedings.

Workplace Culture Review (2023): In 2023, Nine Entertainment commissioned an independent review into workplace culture following allegations of sexual harassment and toxic behavior at some television programs, including on "The Voice" and "Today." The review, conducted by Intersection Consulting, found systemic issues across the organization. Nine publicly released the review's findings and committed to implementing all recommendations, including mandatory training, improved reporting mechanisms, and leadership accountability measures. As of August 2026, Nine reports ongoing implementation of the review's recommendations.

Melbourne Studio Security Incident (March 2021): In March 2021, Thomas Sewell, leader of a neo-Nazi group, and an associate gained unauthorized access to Channel 9's Melbourne studios. The individuals attacked a security guard who was attempting to escort them from the premises. Sewell was charged with affray, recklessly causing injury, and assault. The incident highlighted security challenges faced by media organizations that cover controversial groups and topics.

Advertising Market Pressure (2024-2026): Channel 9's broadcast television revenue declined 14% in H1 FY26 compared to the prior period, driven by a 9.8% decline in the metropolitan free-to-air advertising market. This reflects a structural shift of advertising spending from linear television to digital platforms including YouTube, Meta, and streaming services. While not a controversy, this revenue decline is a significant business challenge that has prompted Nine's strategic transformation under the Nine2028 program, including the acquisition of QMS Media (outdoor advertising) to diversify revenue away from broadcast television.