Marty Sheargold and Triple M have come under intense scrutiny following a controversial on-air rant about Australia’s women’s football team, the Matildas. Earlier this year, Sheargold parted ways with the broadcaster after making remarks that drew widespread condemnation and left Olympic swimming champion Leisel Jones visibly upset.
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has since found that the radio program in question breached decency rules by airing what it deemed “sexist comments” about women’s sport. Sheargold’s statements, broadcast in February, included comparing Matildas players to “Year 10 girls” and asserting that he would rather “hammer a nail through the head of my penis” than watch the upcoming AFC Women’s Asian Cup.
The comments prompted a significant public backlash, leading Sheargold to issue an apology. He acknowledged the severity of his statements, saying, “I fully understand the gravity of my comments.” Following this, Sheargold and Triple M mutually decided to end their professional relationship.
An ACMA investigation determined that Triple M and several of its sister stations had contravened the Commercial Radio Code of Practice. The regulator concluded that the program broadcast “derogatory language and sexist themes,” which violated accepted standards for Australian commercial radio.
“The sexist comments, expressed in a demeaning and sarcastic tone, demonstrated a level of contempt and disdain for women’s sport, and more generally of women,” ACMA stated in its official findings.
Carolyn Lidgerwood, a member of the authority, said the language used on the show was “demeaning and insulting.” She added, “Sexist comments like this don’t belong in Australian broadcasting. Even if the comments were an extremely ill-judged attempt at humour, a reasonable listener would have found them offensive and to have crossed the line.”
Southern Cross Austereo (SCA), the owner of Triple M, has previously emphasized its commitment to upholding audience standards. A company statement read: “Right now, it’s clear this is a moment for reflection and review. Triple M, and the wider SCA network, will continue to take all necessary steps to support staff.”
The incident also drew the attention of Football Australia, the governing body for soccer in the country. Sheargold had previously issued an apology to both the Matildas and the broader football community, with Football Australia labeling his remarks “unacceptable” and damaging to the reputation of women’s sport.
“Such remarks not only diminish the extraordinary achievements and contributions of our women’s national football team but also fail to recognise the profound impact they have had on Australian sport and society,” Football Australia said in a statement.
The organisation highlighted the pivotal role the Matildas have played in inspiring young Australians of all genders. “The Matildas have inspired a new generation of Australians from young boys and girls to men and women who now see a future for themselves in football and sport more broadly. They have broken barriers, set new standards, and elevated the game to unprecedented heights. Their success has been instrumental in transforming women’s sport in Australia, and they deserve to be covered with the respect and professionalism they have earned.”
The controversy even reached the highest levels of government, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemning the comments as “shocking.” The remarks were particularly impactful as they reportedly left Olympic champion Leisel Jones in tears during a live segment.
ACMA has indicated that it is considering further enforcement action against SCA stations in light of the findings. The regulator’s investigation underscores the growing focus on accountability and standards in Australian broadcasting, particularly concerning the treatment of women in sport.
This episode has sparked broader discussions within the media industry about the responsibility of broadcasters to create a respectful and professional environment. Many commentators argue that high-profile personalities like Sheargold carry an inherent duty to use their platforms responsibly, particularly when commenting on issues involving gender equality in sports.
In the wake of the scandal, the debate around sexist commentary in media continues to intensify. Advocacy groups and sports organisations alike are pushing for stricter oversight and clearer consequences for broadcasters who cross the line, aiming to ensure that women’s achievements in sport receive the respect and recognition they deserve.
The Matildas, meanwhile, remain focused on their athletic ambitions, with the AFC Women’s Asian Cup on the horizon. Their resilience and commitment to their sport stand in stark contrast to the controversy, highlighting the growing prominence and influence of women’s football in Australia.
As discussions continue about the proper standards of conduct in Australian broadcasting, the Sheargold case serves as a high-profile reminder of the consequences of inappropriate commentary and the importance of fostering a culture of respect and professionalism across all media platforms.
