Ray Hadley testifies in Alan Jones trial, recounts complainant's disclosure

Retired 2GB host takes the stand as veteran broadcaster faces 22 charges of indecent assault and sexual touching

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Retired 2GB radio host Ray Hadley has begun giving evidence in the trial of Alan Jones, telling the court that a complainant, known as Complainant C, disclosed to him in 2019 that Jones had allegedly kissed and touched him without consent. Jones faces 22 charges of indecent assault and sexual touching.

Ray Hadley, who knew Alan Jones for over 35 years through radio broadcasting, took the stand in the NSW Local Court on Tuesday as the trial continues. Hadley is being questioned in relation to allegations made by a former colleague, referred to as Complainant C, who claims Jones kissed and touched him in 2008 without consent.

Hadley testified that in October 2019, Complainant C confided in him about the alleged incident. "He said, 'He put his hand on my c**k and kissed me'," Hadley told the court. The complainant alleged the incidents occurred in the work lift and while he was at work. Hadley said Complainant C asked him not to report it to management.

The court also heard that in December 2023, Complainant C contacted Hadley to alert him about an article by Sydney Morning Herald investigative journalist Kate McClymont that included allegations against Jones. Hadley said he aired a pre-recorded statement acknowledging the article, which he sent to Complainant C for review beforehand. "I felt it was important that I didn't say anything that he'd find difficult to deal with," Hadley said. He added that the statement was pre-recorded to avoid ad-libbing on air.

Jones's defence team has said none of the allegations made by Complainant C ever happened. The trial continues.

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Analysis

Why This Matters

  • The trial involves one of Australia's most prominent radio broadcasters facing serious historical sexual offence charges.
  • The testimony of a fellow media figure could influence the credibility of the complainant's account.
  • The case highlights how workplace complaints about powerful figures are handled and reported.

Background

Alan Jones, a former 2GB radio host, is facing trial on 22 charges including indecent assault and sexual touching, with allegations spanning several years. The trial is being heard in the NSW Local Court. Ray Hadley, a long-time rival and colleague in Sydney radio, is a key witness for the prosecution regarding Complainant C's allegations. Hadley retired from 2GB in 2025.

Key Perspectives

The Prosecution: Relies on Hadley's testimony to corroborate the complainant's account of the alleged assault and the timeline of disclosure. The Defence: Has consistently denied all allegations, arguing none of the events occurred as described. Complainant C: Allegedly broke down when discussing the incidents, and did not want the matter reported to management initially.

What to Watch

  • Further cross-examination of Ray Hadley by the defence.
  • Testimony from other witnesses, including journalist Kate McClymont.
  • The jury's assessment of the credibility of the complainant's delayed disclosure.

Sources

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Zotpaper

Articles published under the Zotpaper byline are synthesized from multiple source publications by our AI editor and reviewed by our editorial process. Each story combines reporting from credible outlets to give readers a balanced, comprehensive view.