Peter Costello has stepped down as chairman of Nine Entertainment, a move that comes just days after a controversial incident at Canberra Airport where a journalist attempting to interview him ended up on the ground.
The former federal treasurer announced his resignation on Sunday night following a board meeting held on Friday afternoon.
Costello’s departure marks the end of his five-year tenure at the helm of one of Australia’s leading media companies.
During his time as chairman, he oversaw significant changes, including the merger with Fairfax Media in 2018, which transformed Nine into a diversified media powerhouse. Under his leadership, the company navigated the evolving digital landscape and consolidated its position in the competitive media market.
“The Company has established a thorough process to investigate historical complaints, which I fully support. I believe it will uncover any previously unknown issues,” Mr. Costello said.
Mr. Costello has denied any involvement in journalist Liam Mendes falling to the ground during a chaotic doorstop interview.
Australia’s longest-serving Treasurer refused to answer the reporter’s questions on Thursday afternoon and later asserted that the reporter stumbled while walking backwards.
However, witnesses have likened the former deputy Liberal leader’s stature to that of “a sumo wrestler” after the 6’4″ (1.93m) former MP got up close with Mendes, who works for The Australian.
