Weekend Sunrise newsreader Talitha Cummins is taking legal action against Channel Seven, after she was told she could not return to her job following maternity leave.
Cummins went on leave shortly before the birth of her son, Oliver, fully expecting to return to her newsreading role with the program. It was a view that appeared to be shared by the show’s co-hosts.
On her last day before maternity leave, Weekend Sunrise ran a segment in which the show’s hosts expressed their best wishes for Cummins.
Co-host Monique Wright appeared to be under the impression that Cummins was returning. “We can’t wait for you to come back, it becomes very real now when you finish work,” she said.
Co-host Andrew O’Keefe similarly appeared to believe Cummins would return. “And make sure you come back and have another baby, because that cake looks fantastic,” O’Keefe said.
But News Corp has reported Cummins received a phone call from Seven News boss Craig McPherson nine weeks after the birth of her son, telling her she was no longer under contract.
Cummins was reportedly offered another job, as an early morning weekday newsreader, which was not feasible, given the recent birth and her partner’s job as a personal trainer.
She has lodged a general protections application in the Fair Work Commission, alleging Channel Seven’s decision constituted an adverse action.
Australia’s fair work laws protect an employee’s right to return to the same job after a period of paid parental leave.
Channel Seven did not respond to a request to comment on Monday.
It is understood the matter will go to conciliation before the commission later this month.
Last year Cummins opened up about her struggle with alcoholism on ABC’s Australian Story.
Seven West Media last month found itself in controversy after a former executive assistant, Amber Harrison, made allegations about her treatment by the network in the wake of an affair with chief executive Tim Worner. The broadcaster made a confidential settlement with Harrison, with payments made to her as part of the terms.
