One of Australia’s longest-serving and most respected radio newsreaders, Tony Tardio, has reportedly lodged action with the Fair Work Commission after being let go by Nine Radio Melbourne talk station 3AW.

66 year-old Tardio, with four decades as a newsreader, has not been on-air since December.

According to the Herald Sun (subscription required), Tardio was offered a redundancy.

Tardio read his very first 3AW bulletin back in January, 1996. His son Damian also works at the station as a producer and audio engineer.

This decision follows the October departure of 3AW News Director Gail Watson after 17 years and the prospective sale of the audio arm of the network, which also appears to be in limbo.

Tony Tardio has been contacted for comment.