Brad Hazzard slammed as ‘obnoxious’ and ‘unhinged’ for mocking journalist
NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard has been labelled ‘obnoxious’ and ‘unhinged’ after he launched a bizarre attack against a female reporter on live TV.
NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard has been slammed online after launching a bizarre attack against a female journalist, mocking and taunting her on live television.
Mr Hazzard held a press conference in Coffs Harbour on Thursday to answer questions about a new hospital expansion project.
But as ABC Journalist Danuta Kozaki dialled in to ask about regional health issues, Mr Hazzard proceeded to mock and ridicule her.
“Ughh. Someone just said Danuta could ask a question, but that wasn’t me,” Mr Hazzard said.
After refusing to answer Ms Kozaki’s question, insisting she would “go out and say too much” if he did, Mr Hazzard began making fun of the journalist, insisting she was annoying the other people at the press conference.
“Danuta there are a stack of people here just clapping and cheering at all your continuing questions,” Mr Hazzard mocked.
“There’s broad acclimation from all media up here that you’ve had enough.
“One more and that’s it. Make it good.”
After Ms Kozaki gave her thanks and left the call, Mr Hazzard ramped up his attack, attempting to get the other reporters present to laugh along with his taunts.
“OK, thanks Danuta, see ya. Anyone want to give a round of applause for Danuta?” he laughed.
“No, there was nobody. Sorry, Danuta. Byeee.”
Mr Hazzard’s performance was criticised online, with some labelling his behaviour “condescending”, “obnoxious”, and even “unhinged”.
This isn't the first time I have heard the NSW Health Minister @BradHazzard responding in a dismissive and condescending way to a perfectly valid question related to his portfolio.
— Tim Fernandez (@TimFernandezz) December 2, 2021
Good work @danutakozaki persisting in spite of this behaviour. https://t.co/Z2XzUFvCjH
Another person wrote: “Pretty unhinged presser from Brad Hazzard there.”
Fellow ABC reporter Tim Fernandez praised Ms Kozaki for maintaining her composure despite the “dismissive and condescending” conduct of Mr Hazzard.
“Good work persisting despite this behaviour,” Mr Fernandez said.