‘60 Minutes’ Executive Producer Bill Owens Resigns Amid Trump-Driven Backlash
April 23, 2025
RSF Files ICC Complaint Over Israel’s Alleged War Crimes Against Journalists in Gaza
April 24, 2025
April 24, 2025 – Australia –
Australian journalist Antoinette Lattouf has won a landmark court case against a 61-year-old man who racially abused her online, marking a significant victory against digital hate speech. The case stemmed from a series of threatening and racist messages Lattouf received in late 2023, including disturbing comments referencing her background and appearance, alongside explicit threats of violence and death.
The man behind the abuse, whose identity was not publicly disclosed, was found guilty of using a carriage service to menace and harass. He had admitted to sending the offensive messages and expressed regret, but the court emphasized the severity of his actions. Magistrate Michael Barko described the abuse as “disgusting and deeply harmful,” highlighting the need for deterrence in an era where online hate has become increasingly common and far-reaching.
Lattouf, a prominent journalist and advocate for media diversity, spoke out following the ruling, stating that while the outcome does not erase the trauma, it sends an important message that online abuse, particularly with racist and violent overtones, has real consequences. “It’s not just words on a screen,” she said. “It’s part of a much larger problem where journalists, especially women of colour, are being silenced or driven out of the industry through harassment.”
The case drew national attention not only because of the vile nature of the messages but also due to the broader context of Lattouf’s public profile. In addition to being a respected broadcaster, she is involved in an ongoing unfair dismissal case against the ABC after being let go from a temporary role amid controversy over her social media activity regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict. During that trial, Lattouf revealed she had been receiving death threats and faced mounting pressure for expressing her views.
Her court win now stands as a reminder of the growing threats faced by journalists online and the urgent need for stronger legal protections. Advocates have welcomed the decision, calling it a small but critical step in holding online abusers accountable and ensuring that freedom of expression is not undermined by racism or intimidation.
Reference –
Journalist Antoinette Lattouf wins court case over racist, online abuse from 61yo man
