Investigative journalist Kate McClymont gives evidence in Alan Jones assault trial

The Sydney court hearing the case against former radio broadcaster Alan Jones heard testimony this week from Kate McClymont, an investigative journalist whose reporting triggered a major police inquiry. Jones, who previously anchored a high-profile breakfast show, has entered pleas of not guilty to 21 charges involving indecent assault and sexual touching against five men.

McClymont, a veteran reporter with 10 Walkley awards, appeared at the Downing Centre local court on Tuesday. During her evidence-in-chief, she confirmed to prosecutor Georgina Wright that the individuals she interviewed for her 2023 articles received no financial or personal benefits from her or her employer for sharing their accounts. The articles, which detailed claims of non-consensual touching and groping, were the catalyst for the formation of Strike Force Bonnefin by New South Wales police.

The role of an investigative journalist

As an established investigative journalist, McClymont explained her methodology, noting that she consistently sought responses from Jones and his legal representatives via text and email prior to publishing her findings. She further testified that she handled the accounts of three alleged victims separately, ensuring their stories remained confidential from one another during the reporting process.

Under cross-examination by defence barrister Gabrielle Bashir SC, the discussion turned to the motivations behind her work. When questioned whether special investigations under her name were driven by readership or advertising metrics, McClymont stated that such commercial considerations were of no relevance to her journalistic practice.

The court also heard details regarding the handling of her research materials. McClymont noted that she did not initially provide her interview notes or recordings to law enforcement due to confidentiality concerns. However, she eventually complied with a subpoena for these documents in 2026. The trial follows a long-running investigation that culminated in the arrest of Jones at his city apartment in late 2024, four years after his departure from his long-standing role at 2GB.

Investigative journalist Kate McClymont testified that her sources received no benefits for sharing their accounts.

Why it matters

The trial represents a significant legal development following years of scrutiny into the conduct of a prominent media figure. The proceedings affect the public discourse surrounding accountability in broadcasting and the integrity of investigative reporting. For observers, the case highlights the intersection of media investigations and the formal criminal justice process, as the court evaluates the evidence that led to the formation of a dedicated police strike force.