Channel 7 recently found out exactly what happens with their show ‘House Rules’.
During filming of this show in November and December 2016, Ms Nicole Prince was paid $500.00 per week, plus a $500.00 per week allowance.
During filming Ms Prince recalled feeling harassed and bullied. She said about her time on the show:
Ms Prince lodged a workers compensation claim in New South Wales which, after some hurdles, was ultimately accepted.
The Commission found that Ms Prince did suffer a psychological injury because of her time on House Rules, and Channel Seven’s failure to take action to protect Ms Prince after airing of the show.
This was a win for Ms Prince, but where will this lead injury claims in the future?
Coincidentally, news is abuzz with Channel 9’s show, ‘The Block’. Allegedly, the contestants Mitch and Mark have threatened to quit the competition on its last week amid claims of bullying. It is difficult to assess whether this is a genuine concern, or just reality TV hype to get the audience excited, but producers of all reality TV shows should take heed of Ms Prince’s circumstances and consider what they might be putting their contestants through.
One can only imagine what the contestants of shows like Love Island, or The Bachelor are having to deal with, and whether they are being properly supported during filming and after the show goes to air.
If you have sustained injury on a reality TV show, you may have a right to make a common law claim for damages. There are strict timeframes for lodgement of your Notice of Claim under the legislation. Your claim could be rejected if you lodge outside the timeframes. Early lodgement of your claim will assist in early access to treatment and rehabilitation if required.
Regardless of what steps are taken, it is essential that court proceedings are started within three (3) years of the incident. Generally speaking after this date you will not be able to bring an action for damages in relation to this accident, however, you should take legal advice in this regard.
For more information or assistance for bullying or harassment complaints call one of our injury lawyers on 1300 285 888.
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