Antony Catalano, a media executive and former journalist, has been charged with assault, false imprisonment and making threats to kill.
Police allege Catalano dragged a woman through an apartment and swung a clothes iron at her head.
The ABC quoted an email sent to staff at regional and rural publisher Australian Community Media (ACM) at the weekend saying Catalano had been stood down as chairman of ACM and View Media Group.
The case was adjourned on Friday night until May 11 in the Melbourne Magistrates' Court.
Catalano said he would immediately enter a rehabilitation program
“I am deeply ashamed and humiliated,” he said in a statement.
“Those close to me have been urging me to seek professional help for some time and there have been interventions by close family and friends.
"I regret not heeding their advice and I continued to believe I could hide my mental health issues. I allowed shame and pride to prevent me from confronting these problems and seeking treatment earlier.”
The board and executive leadership team of ACM released a statement, saying they are shocked and deeply concerned by the serious allegations against Catalano, who is now on an extended leave of absence.
"Mr Catalano is facing charges involving alleged violence towards a woman," the statement said.
"While these are allegations that will be determined by the court, violence against women is entirely against the values of our company and our mastheads.
"Mr Catalano’s absence will not affect the day-to-day running of ACM. As executive chair his role is not operational. ACM has a capable and experienced management team that is committed to the continuity and stability of the business and to its standards of safety, respect, integrity and inclusion.
"ACM’s mastheads have a long and proud history of upholding the values of the audiences they represent. They are a trusted voice in keeping our communities strong, informed and connected. That will not change.
"We acknowledge Mr Catalano’s statement about his health. However, the company’s first priority is the wellbeing of its people. We understand that the allegations will be distressing and confronting for ACM staff.
"We will be working to ensure that all employees are supported and heard, and that our business continues to serve our audiences and customers around Australia.
"Our thoughts are with all those affected by this matter."
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