A new safety net for the staff of politicians is to be developed following a review ordered by the Premier.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian welcomed the report, Review of policies and procedures for Ministerial offices – bullying, harassment, and sexual misconduct, from former Sex Discrimination Commissioner Pru Goward and said she would accept Professor Goward’s recommendations.
“I am keen to adopt all the recommendations and there will be an opportunity for consultation in the next phase of this process,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“If we’re serious about making change, we have to do it properly and this will involve engagement with NSW Parliament and any survivors,” she said.
Ms Berejiklian said the Review made 13 recommendations, including the establishment of an independent process for those unwilling to have their complaint handled within a Ministerial Office; the establishment of clear and transparent processes to be followed where complaints are made; and development of a best practice Respectful Workplace Policy.
The Premier said the Respectful Workplace Policy would include investigative and reporting procedures to address bullying, harassment and sexual misconduct in Ministerial Offices to enhance the safety and security of staff
She said the Commissioner’s recommendations also covered an increased focus on training for staff and Chiefs regarding their obligations; an anonymous survey to be conducted of all Ministers and their staff to establish a baseline for the subsequent impact of the new policies and procedures; and that the independent structure report regularly to the Premier on emerging trends and proposals to improve the respectful workplace policy.
Professor Goward’s 46-page Report can be accessed at this PS News link.
