Media boss Antony Catalano has been accused of several offences in Melbourne. Photo: Facebook.
CONTENT WARNING: This article refers to violence against women.
Australian Community Media (ACM) executive chairman and private investor Antony Catalano has stepped down from the company following his court appearance in Melbourne.
According to the ABC, Mr Catalano was arrested and charged with assault, false imprisonment and making threats to kill on Friday night (13 March). Region attempted to verify these charges independently, but was told by a Victoria Police spokesperson that, as the matter was before the courts, it could not comment further.
Region understands ACM managing director Tony Kendall fronted an all-staff meeting on Monday (16 March) afternoon where he told them that Mr Catalano had stood down.
He also said ACM was not for sale, referencing speculation from some media outlets.
Mr Kendall earlier issued a statement to all ACM employees, following Mr Catalano’s late-night court appearance on Friday, outlining that Mr Catalano was on an extended leave of absence due to the “charges involving alleged violence towards a woman”.
“While these are allegations that will be determined by the court, violence against women is entirely against the values of our company and our mastheads,” he wrote.
“ACM’s mastheads have a long and proud history of upholding the values of the audiences they represent. They are a trusted voice in keeping our communities strong, informed and connected. That will not change.”
Mr Kendall said Mr Catalano’s absence would not impact the day-to-day running of the business.
Mr Catalano’s business partner Alex Waislitz issued his own statement on Monday (16 March).
According to The Australian Financial Review, Mr Waislitz described the allegations as “incredibly confronting and concerning”.
His statement echoed much of what Mr Kendall wrote, reiterating that he did not condone violence against women, and the “immediate priority” was the wellbeing of all employees and stakeholders of ACM and View Media Group.
According to The Canberra Times, Mr Catalano issued a statement about appearing before the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court at the weekend, stating he was “deeply ashamed and humiliated”.
“I know my actions have caused hurt and concern for others, including the woman involved, my family, friends, colleagues and the many people connected to the businesses I have been privileged to lead,” he said.
He went on to detail that he had been experiencing “significant mental health and substance abuse issues” and had checked into a rehabilitation program.
“I will also be taking a six-month leave of absence from all professional responsibilities so I can focus entirely on treatment and recovery,” Mr Catalano said.
“I know I have let many people down. I am deeply sorry for the impact my behaviour has had on my family, my colleagues and staff across View Media Group and Australian Community Media.
“I understand there is now a legal process underway and I will respect that process. On the advice of my lawyers I will not be commenting further while the matter is before the courts.”
Mr Kendall acknowledged Mr Catalano’s words, but said the company’s first priority was its employees’ wellbeing.
“We understand that the allegations will be distressing and confronting for ACM staff. We will be working to ensure that all employees are supported and heard, and that our business continues to serve our audiences and customers around Australia,” he said.
“Our thoughts are with all those affected by this matter.”
Mr Catalano co-owns The Canberra Times, Illawarra Mercury, Daily Advertiser in Wagga Wagga, The Newcastle Herald and The Border Mail in Albury/Wodonga, among others.
He’s also the executive chairman of View Media Group Pty Ltd and owns Raes on Wategos in Byron Bay.
Mr Catalano was the Chief Executive Officer of Domain from 2013 to 2018.
He has also taken immediate leaves of absence from the boards of financial services group Keybridge Capital, and chocolate and confectionery company Yowie Group.
His court case is listed for mention at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 11 May.
If this story has raised any concerns for you, 1800RESPECT, the national 24-hour sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line, can be contacted on 1800 737 732.
Help and support are also available through the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre on 02 6247 2525, the Domestic Violence Crisis Service ACT on 02 6280 0900, the Sexual Violence Legal Services on 6257 4377 and Lifeline on 13 11 14.
If you or someone you know needs support for addiction, call the National 24/7 Alcohol and Other Drugs Hotline on 1800 250 015.
In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
Original Article published by Claire Fenwicke on Region Canberra.
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