A cyber attack has disrupted Channel Nine’s live broadcasts out of Sydney, the company says.

The broadcaster was unable to air its Sunday morning news program, Weekend Today, which runs from 7:00am to 1:00pm from its Sydney headquarters.  

And the network’s 5:00pm news program did not go to air in Melbourne.

“We wish to inform you there has been a cyber attack on our systems which has disrupted live broadcasts out of Nine Sydney,” the company said in an email to staff. 

However, the company said it had put in place contingencies to ensure its NRL and 6:00pm news broadcasts would proceed.

“Our IT teams are working around the clock to fully restore our systems which have primarily affected our broadcast and corporate business units,” the company said in a statement.

“Publishing and radio systems continue to be operational.”

Nine’s 6:00pm news bulletin went to air from the studio in Melbourne. 

The broadcaster said it was hopeful of being able to put the Today Show to air as usual on Monday.

All staff have been asked to work from home until further notice.

The company said emails did not appear to be impacted but the Nine IT network had been affected.

Earlier, the company said it was “responding to technical issues” affecting its live broadcasting”.

A source, who did not want to be identified as he was not allowed to speak to media, said Nine management had informed staff that a “malicious” cyber attack was suspected to be the cause.

The Australian Financial Review, which is also owned by Nine, also reported that the media company was likely the target of a cyber attack, the effects of which could last beyond Sunday.

Source: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-28/channel-9-off-air-due-to-technical-issues/100034364