Axe Falls on 9News Brisbane Staff
Queensland sports anchor Jonathan Uptin is among those leaving Nine Entertainment, following a major round of redundancies across Australia. According to The Courier-Mail, dozens of staff have been affected by the company's restructuring.
Uptin, who has held various roles with Nine including presenting the former Darwin News from Brisbane, departs alongside producer Leon Cull and executive assistant Jessica Llewelyn. The report states Llewelyn was informed over the weekend not to attend work on Monday.
Industry outlets such as Mumbrella note that about 50 positions across Nine’s streaming and broadcasting divisions will be impacted, although some may find new roles through internal redeployment.
“The changes were part of a new operating model that formally brings together teams across Stan, Channel 9, and 9Now. It is designed to reduce duplication, drive greater collaboration, and deliver commercial growth for Nine, while working to offset the challenging external advertising market,” Nine said in its statement.
The statement did not mention Nine Radio, raising speculation that stations like 4BC could soon leave the network. Nine is reportedly evaluating offers for its radio assets, including Sydney’s 2GB and Melbourne’s 3AW.
Author’s Summary
Nine Entertainment’s restructuring has resulted in major staff cuts, including 9News Brisbane presenter Jonathan Uptin, as the network seeks efficiency and new growth opportunities.