Domain ‘reviewing’ workplace culture following Catalano allegations

Lindsay Bennett
By Lindsay Bennett | 8 February 2018
 
Antony Catalano

Domain will undertake a review of its workplace culture following allegations against former chief executive Antony Catalano claiming he led a “boys' club” at the company, according to reports.

In an email to Domain employees, acting executive chairman Nick Falloon said he would undertake a review of its “working environment” following an article published in The Australian Financial Review.

The article accused Catalano of misconduct and alleged he oversaw a sexist culture with complaints stretching back two years.

Catalano has reportedly engaged high-profile media and defamation lawyer, Mark O’Brien, to defend himself against the stories. He reportedly denies the allegations but could not be contacted by AdNews prior to publishing.

The Fairfax articles do not allege sexual harassment by Catalano or executives, but suggest a sexist culture.

“While there was no sexual harassment according to people who work there, there was a general tone of disrespect towards women and a permissive environment that encouraged heavy after hours socialising among work colleagues. Women were referred to as ‘babe’ or ‘doll’ and urged to smile more by male colleagues according to a complaint made to the human resources department.” - AFR

Catalano announced his surprise departure from the company in late-January, saying he wanted to put his family first.

The announcement, two months after the company had floated, caused a sharp drop in the company’s share price.

A Domain representative declined to comment on the matter.

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