IN BRIEF
- Spencer has previously drawn criticism online over other social media content and commentary.
- Broadcaster Brooke Blurton urged followers not to engage with or further amplify the videos online.
A content creator who found herself at the center of controversy following a video that leaned into racist stereotypes is now contemplating legal recourse after being dismissed from her job.
Lisa Jane Spencer, who identifies as a comedian, gained attention for releasing several provocative videos featuring the branding of an SBS current affairs program. The public broadcaster swiftly distanced itself, reporting the posts and making a clear stance against all forms of racism.
Following the backlash, Spencer announced her intention to seek legal counsel after her employer, Victoria’s Peninsula Hot Springs, terminated her employment abruptly on Wednesday.
The wellness retreat issued a statement acknowledging awareness of the online circulation of posts from their former employee. They emphasized their disapproval, stating that they do not “support or endorse content that is inconsistent with our values or our commitment to inclusion, respect, and cultural safety.”
The wellness retreat said it was aware of the posts “circulating online from a former employee” and it did not “support or endorse content that is inconsistent with our values or our commitment to inclusion, respect and cultural safety”.
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“We want to acknowledge and sincerely recognise the concern and disappointment that has been expressed, particularly by members of First Nations communities, community partners and those who have reached out to us directly,” it said in a statement posted on social media.
Spencer accused critics of doxing — releasing someone’s personal information without their consent — where she worked as she took aim at her former employer.
“The Peninsula Hot Springs say they are inclusive of all people… But this is completely incorrect,” she wrote on social media.
“They cater more to certain types of people than others. “I will be seeking legal advice.”
Spencer’s latest video — posted as National Reconciliation Week concluded on Wednesday — featured a fictional First Nations character and drew widespread criticism for its portrayal of Indigenous identity and culture.
Versions of the videos, which featured the branding for SBS Insight, were removed before later being re-uploaded to her social media page in an altered form.
SBS said the content was not produced, endorsed or authorised by SBS.
“SBS is aware of posts being shared on social media featuring unauthorised use of SBS logos. The posts and individuals are in no way associated with our content and have been reported,” an SBS spokesperson said.
“SBS unequivocally condemns all forms of racism and recognises the damaging impact it has on individuals, communities and social cohesion. Such views have no place in Australian society.”
The public broadcaster said it was committed to telling the stories of Australia’s diverse communities, exposing the harms and impacts of racism, and amplifying the voices, experiences and perspectives of First Nations peoples and multicultural communities across the country.
Media personality Brooke Blurton also responded to Spencer’s video, saying it was important to understand that the content should not be dismissed as humour.
“It’s about actually recognising the real impact that this has and continues to have on communities, on families, but especially young people who are already facing massive amounts of discrimination and prejudice every day,” she said.
Blurton also urged followers not to engage with or further amplify the content online.
Spencer has defended her videos and rejected criticism that the content was racist, arguing viewers should “take the joke and laugh”.
“I don’t make jokes at Aboriginal people. I make jokes about all kinds of people,” she told the Sydney Morning Herald.
Spencer’s widely criticised and condemned video comes amid a senate inquiry into racism, hate and violence against First Peoples, which is currently being conducted by the Joint Standing Committee on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs.
Evidence already presented to the inquiry reveals growing concern about the scale of racism and hate experienced by First Nations people particularly online, with many submissions highlighting social media as a significant source of harm.
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