QLD: Queensland Health Under Fire Over Bullying

Source: Safety Culture

A female worker has allegedly been bullied by Queensland Health staff after claiming she was raped by a colleague.

At the Southport Magistrates Court last month, a 33-year-old doctor was charged with sexual assault. He was allowed to post bail provided that he will not make any contact with the alleged victim and other witnesses.

According to reports, the female staffer had made a Workcover Claim, accusing Queensland Health of failing to provide her with a suitable return-to-work plan, and being more concerned about the incident's negative publicity. She said Queensland Health continued to bully her under a performance improvement plan.

Queensland Health has denied the claims. It explained its manner of handling the incident, stating that it occurred outside the workplace and was subject to an investigation by police.

A spokesman for Queensland Health said the performance management system was a staff support process that allowed workers to seek feedback and guidance from managers.

"Queensland Health strives to provide a supportive workplace for its staff," the spokesman said.

Mudgeeraba MP Ros Bates, told State Parliament the performance management policy was being used to discriminate against a worker so Queensland Health could avoid addressing a serious issue.

"Queensland Health's treatment of this employee is nothing short of negligent when the hierarchy has known of this assault allegation for three months and done nothing," she said.