Australia Post CEO Christine Holgate says PM had ‘no basis’ to stand her down

Embattled Australia Post boss Christine Holgate has signalled a bitter legal war could loom over the PM’s “humiliating” decision to stand her down.

Christine Holgate has stepped aside while investigations continue into the purchasing of Cartier watches as a bonus for staff.

Australia Post Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Christine Holgate during the Environment and Communications Senate Estimates at Parliament House in Canberra.

Embattled Australia Post boss Christine Holgate has signalled a bitter legal war could now loom over the Prime Minister’s “humiliating” decision to stand her down.

She has also never formally agreed to stand aside as an investigation is launched into the purchase of Cartier watches by Australia Post for senior executives.

In a statement, Australia Post told news.com.au that it the organisation stood by its claim she had agreed to stand aside.

“Australia Post has been communicating frequently with Ms Holgate regarding the current situation and ensuring appropriate support has been provided,” an Australia Post spokesperson said.

“The chair stands by his previously made statement on Thursday 22 October that Ms Holgate will stand aside and this was agreed to by both parties in a telephone conversation.”.

Mr Blackmore added it was a bit rich for the media to attack Ms Holgate over her own $48,000 watch, which was purchased privately.

“What woman in Australia wouldn’t like their husband to give her a Bulgari?” Mr Blackmore said.

But the Prime Minister has defended his decision to demand Ms Holgate stand aside