Investigation launched into Walkley Award for incorrect report on former MP Andrew Laming

The foundation behind one of Australia’s top media prizes has announced a review into the awarding of a gong for an incorrect report on former federal MP Andrew Laming.

AN independent review will be established to investigate what the Walkley Foundation should do about their awarding of a prestigious gong for an incorrect report on former federal MP Andrew Laming, by 9 News Queensland.

In 2021, 9 News Queensland broadcast a report on Dr Laming, accusing him of taking a lewd picture of a 29-year-old woman.

former federal MP Andrew Laming.

The picture was described as an “upskirting,” with the network alleging it had been taken as the woman knelt to refill a bar fridge.

Dr Laming went on to sue Nine, but before the defamation case could go to trial, the broadcaster viewed materials and withdrew its defence case and all allegations, while also apologising to Dr Laming.

Peter Fegan. Picture: Instagram

In a statement issued to the Courier-Mail on Friday night, the Walkley Foundation acknowledged the defamation proceedings undertaken by Dr Laming against the Nine Network.

“The Walkley Foundation notes that in Federal Court of Australia defamation proceedings commenced by Dr Andrew Laming against the Nine Network,” the statement read.

“The Walkley Foundation Directors have resolved to commission an independent review of the awarding of the 2022 Walkley Award for Television/Video News Reporting to Peter Fegan and Rebeka Powell.”

Legal sources estimate the Nine network will face a more than $1 million payout, including legal costs.