Nine News’ Sydney weather presenter Amber Sherlock is among several high-profile on-air talents expected to depart the broadcaster. This move is part of a significant round of redundancies announced on Monday, aimed at streamlining operations within the company.
Other notable figures affected include Adelaide newsreader Kate Collins, Brisbane sports presenter Jonathan Uptin, and Newcastle newsreader Gavin Morris. These individuals have been informed that their roles are being made redundant as Nine News undergoes a strategic overhaul.
While Nine has not officially confirmed the specific departures, a source with insider knowledge, who is not authorized to speak publicly, indicated that the changes involve a mix of redundancies and non-renewal of contracts.
Strategic Restructuring Under New Leadership
The announcement comes as Amanda Laing, Nine’s new streaming and broadcast chief, informed staff of the proposed 50 job cuts on Monday morning. This decision is part of an ongoing effort to enhance efficiency as Nine integrates its various platforms, including Channel Nine, the digital streaming service 9Now, and Stan.
Amber Sherlock, who gained media attention in 2017 due to a leaked video of an off-air disagreement with a colleague over wardrobe choices, is among those affected. The incident, which involved Sherlock insisting her colleague change jackets, became a viral sensation after being leaked during an ad break by a Nine staffer.
Impact on Nine’s Workforce
The proposed cuts represent a small fraction of the nearly 2,900 employees within Nine’s broadcasting and streaming division. Despite the reduction, some new roles are being created, suggesting that the total number of departures might be less than the initially proposed 50.
Nine, which also owns The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, clarified that these redundancies are confined to the streaming and broadcast segment. The publishing division previously saw 85 roles cut in 2024, which led to a five-day strike over pay conditions.
Driving Efficiency and Collaboration
A Nine spokesperson emphasized that the cuts are intended to eliminate redundancy and foster greater collaboration across Stan, Channel 9, and 9Now. This effort also aims to address challenges posed by a difficult advertising market.
“The cuts are designed to reduce duplication and drive greater collaboration across Stan, Channel 9, and 9Now, while also working to offset a tough advertising market,” a Nine spokesperson stated on Monday.
Looking Ahead
This development follows a broader trend in the media industry where companies are increasingly focusing on digital transformation and cost efficiency. As Nine continues to adapt to the evolving media landscape, the restructuring is seen as a necessary step to maintain competitiveness.
Industry experts suggest that while such changes can be disruptive, they are often essential for long-term sustainability. The media sector, facing declining traditional advertising revenues, is under pressure to innovate and streamline operations.
As Nine navigates this transition, the impact on its programming and audience engagement will be closely monitored. The company’s ability to successfully integrate its diverse media assets could set a precedent for similar organizations seeking to thrive in a digital-first world.
