Kyle Sandilands Reaches $12.09 Million Settlement Deal With ARN Media

Shock jock Kyle Sandilands has reached a settlement with ARN Media following legal proceedings over the termination of his contract, with the agreement resolving claims arising from an on-air incident involving co-host Jackie ‘O’ Henderson in February 2026.

The settlement concludes Federal Court proceedings and sets out financial payments, advertising commitments and post-contract restrictions for the media personality.

Under the agreement, ARN will pay Sandilands a total of $12.09 million over a three-year period.

The arrangement begins with an initial $3 million payment scheduled for July 2026, followed by monthly instalments continuing until June 2029. The settlement follows the termination of a long-term contract between Sandilands and ARN Media, which had been due to run under earlier arrangements linked to KIIS FM programming.

In addition to cash payments, the agreement includes $1.5 million in advertising support to promote Sandilands’ planned independent audio venture. ARN will also receive a share of revenue from the new venture, recorded as 19.9 per cent of earnings for a three-year period, subject to agreed conditions and thresholds. The settlement is reported to resolve all outstanding claims between the parties arising from the contract termination.

The agreement also includes a non-compete condition preventing Sandilands from working with competing broadcasters until March 2027. ARN Media will no longer provide services to Sandilands or associated entities.

“This agreement brings certainty for ARN and resolves the legal dispute,” ARN Media CEO Michael Stephenson said.

“ARN remains focused on executing its strategy, including driving a leaner, more efficient operating model, strengthening its core radio network and continuing to invest in digital capabilities and long-term growth.”

The dispute originated from an on-air altercation on 20 February 2026 between Sandilands and Jackie ‘O’ Henderson, after which both presenters were removed from the KIIS FM program. Sandilands subsequently initiated legal action challenging the termination, while ARN defended its decision citing contractual breaches.

Jackie ‘O’ Henderson has also pursued a separate claim against ARN, seeking damages of $82 million, with proceedings ongoing.