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Michael Christian Sues Southern Cross Austereo Over 2012 Royal Prank Fallout

He claims Southern Cross Austereo reneged on pledges to rebuild his reputation by staging a sham redundancy in February.

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Michael Christian says that he and Mel Greig were “convenient fall guys and scapegoats” for Southern Cross Austereo
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Overview

  • In July 2025 Michael Christian lodged a federal lawsuit against broadcaster Southern Cross Austereo, citing breach of contract, regulatory violations and a sham redundancy
  • He alleges that 2Day FM’s production team ordered the December 2012 prank impersonating Prince Charles and Queen Elizabeth II to access the Duchess of Cambridge’s hospital ward, breaching ACMA standards
  • Christian contends Southern Cross Austereo failed to deliver promised mental health, reputational and career support in the aftermath of nurse Jacintha Saldanha’s suicide
  • Court documents claim the broadcaster allowed Christian to be scapegoated, exposing him to harassment and undermining his earning potential
  • He is seeking penalties, economic loss compensation and damages; Southern Cross Austereo has declined to comment pending legal proceedings