Former Nine News Director Amanda Paterson has refuted allegations that she exploited a staff discount at a high-end fashion store months after her abrupt dismissal from the network. The claims surfaced after Paterson reportedly received a 50 percent discount at Carla Zampatti, a luxury fashion boutique, during a visit in May, six months post-termination.
Paterson, who was dining with friends in Brisbane, decided to visit the Carla Zampatti store in New Farm. Together, they selected $4,000 worth of designer clothing, including a velvet suit and two jackets. According to reports by The Australian, some sources alleged that Paterson requested the discount herself. However, she has strongly denied these claims, stating that the sales assistant recognized her and voluntarily offered the discount.
“I had never been to that store before,” Paterson explained. “The salesperson said she recognized me from a previous Carla Zampatti fashion parade where I was at a Nine table, then she offered me a discount. I did not claim to be working at Nine.”
The Controversy and Paterson’s Response
The controversy has drawn attention due to Paterson’s high-profile career and sudden departure from Nine News. She left her role in November last year, with Kate Donnison temporarily taking over until QTQ Executive Producer Brendan Hockings returned from leave. Paterson’s career at Nine News was marked by significant achievements, including three Walkley Award nominations and multiple Queensland Media Awards.
“I wish I had known earlier that particular store gave Nine staff a discount. I could have been saving money there for years,” Paterson added, emphasizing her lack of prior knowledge about the discount policy.
A Storied Career and Abrupt Departure
Beginning her career as a 19-year-old reporter, Paterson quickly rose to prominence as an investigative journalist. Her fearless reporting led to impactful exposés on medical negligence, sports misconduct, and even a murder confession that resolved a cold case. Under her leadership, the Queensland bureau thrived, consistently achieving high ratings in a competitive media market.
Despite these successes, Paterson’s termination was sudden and unexpected. She claims she was dismissed via video call by the network’s national news director, Fiona Dear, in a brief meeting that ended her more than three decades of service.
“The termination came despite Nine News recording one of its most successful ratings years in Queensland in a decade under her leadership.”
Industry Reactions and Future Implications
The incident has sparked discussions within the media industry about the treatment of veteran journalists and the challenges they face in an evolving media landscape. Paterson’s case highlights the precarious nature of media careers, even for those with substantial achievements and contributions.
As the story unfolds, it raises questions about corporate policies and the potential for misunderstandings in high-profile dismissals. The industry will be watching closely to see how Paterson’s situation develops and what it might mean for other media professionals navigating similar circumstances.
In the meantime, Paterson remains a respected figure in journalism, with many anticipating her next move in the industry. Her experience and reputation suggest she will continue to have a significant impact, whether within traditional media or new ventures.
