September 21, 2010
The state government has ordered an independent inquiry into claims of serious bullying within the ranks of WorkCover NSW, the agency in charge of combating such practices.
NSW Finance Minister Michael Daley called on Tuesday for an independent inquiry into claims of entrenched bullying in WorkCover's Licensing Solutions Unit.
The unit approves workers to drive forklifts, operate cranes and work on construction sites.
An investigation by one of WorkCover's own safety inspectors, Petar Ankucic, had found a pattern of bullying but the findings had been covered up, The Sydney Morning Herald reported on Tuesday.
The document had been buried and WorkCover had kept quiet on the issue, telling its minister it revealed no bullying, the newspaper said.
Mr Daley said he had asked the director-general of the Department of Premier and Cabinet to ensure an independent review of the allegations is conducted.
"Due to WorkCover's role as the regulator of workplace safety, including bullying matters, I have requested that this review be conducted by somebody independent from WorkCover and the government," he said in a statement, adding that WorkCover should be an "exemplary employer in this area".
"Bullying and intimidation is unacceptable," he said.
"While I have been previously advised by WorkCover that the agency was taking appropriate action to address bullying in the organisation, I want to be sure that this alleged harassment and intimidation ceases and a harmonious workplace is restored."
The report revealed bullying had been "occurring for a prolonged period of time" and that various factors, including selective supervision, had contributed, the Herald reported.
It noted that staff had cried during interviews, and they had shown a "mixture of intense dislike, fear and almost hatred" towards two of their bosses.
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