Ex-Wiggles chief executive sues popular children's group months after departing role
Luke O'Neill was named the children's music sensation's first chief executive last year, according to aNb Media, with his role focusing on 'expanding The Wiggles' digital footprint, developing new products and expanding the commercial operations of the business'.
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O'Neill had worked as a consultant with The Wiggles since mid-2023 prior to stepping into the new role.
4 The former chief executive of The Wiggles has sued the popular children's entertainment group.
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4 The Wiggles, Wiggly Friends and Captain Feathersword in front of Royal Caribbean's Ovation of the Seas in Circular Quay on March 25, 2024, in Sydney, Australia.
Getty Images for Royal Caribbean
His LinkedIn profile states he finished the role in August 2024.
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In a Federal Court application filed earlier this week, O'Neil has lodged proceedings under the Fair Work Act against The Wiggles, the group's leader, Anthony Field, and its general counsel, Matthew Salgo.
4 Luke O'Neill lodged proceedings under the Fair Work Act against The Wiggles, the group's leader, Anthony Field, and its general counsel, Matthew Salgo.
The Wiggles
The application has been made under the Fair Work Act alleging 'dismissal in contravention of a general protection'.
The Fair Work Commission's website outlines general protections laws prevent employers from dismissing employees for specific reasons – such as taking long periods of sick leave or if they are fired for making a complaint under workplace rights.
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Details of O'Neill's application and complaint against The Wiggles and the other respondents is not known.
4 Anthony Field and daughter Lucia Field of The Wiggles pose during a photo shoot in Sydney, New South Wales in 2022.
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O'Neill's legal team Wotton Kearney declined to comment when contacted by NewsWire.
In a statement, a Wiggles spokeswoman said: 'This relates to a current legal proceeding and as such we will not be commenting on it.'
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O'Neill's role as chief executive involved 'ensuring that The Wiggles can continue to self-fund innovative, educational and entertaining content and extend distribution to reach larger audiences than ever before', aNb Media stated when he took on the role.
'The Wiggles have always been pioneers in delivering high-quality, educational, and entertaining content for children,' O'Neill told the outlet in 2023.
'I am thrilled to lead the team as we explore new opportunities in the digital and commercial spaces and expand our global presence. Together, we will continue to create memorable experiences for children and families around the world.'
Kate Chiodo, who has worked in various roles with The Wiggles, was appointed the new chief executive in May.
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