Government House ‘bullies’ bombshell triggers management training overhaul

Government House managers will be ordered into leadership training and hiring practices overhauled following an investigation into bombshell claims of bullying.

Government House managers will be ordered into leadership training and hiring practices overhauled following an investigation into bombshell claims of bullying.

Queensland’s prestigious Government House was rocked earlier this year when former employee Donna Rideout revealed relentless mistreatment had driven her to the brink of suicide.

The former executive officer in March told The Courier-Mail she and colleagues were regularly put down and sworn at, claiming the frequent “narcissistic and manipulative” behaviour of staff members saw her repeatedly break down in tears at work.

Her shocking claims of mistreatment prompted Governor Paul de Jersey – who was not accused of wrongdoing – to call in McGrathNicol for an independent investigation into the behaviour of staff.

Investigators interviewed current and former Government House employees before handing a confidential report to Mr de Jersey – who last month informed Mrs Rideout he was “not satisfied their actions amounted to bullying or harassment”.

General images of the Queensland Government House residence - Paddington Tuesday 9th April 2019 Picture AAP/David Clark

“Having now considered the report and the subsequent explanatory material, I do not consider action against either of the two staff subject to the allegations is warranted,” the Governor wrote.

“This is likely not the outcome you hoped for.

“Please be assured I have turned my mind extensively to all matters raised.”

However, Mr de Jersey said he would introduce changes to “enhance health and wellbeing of staff”.

Notably, a clause in Government House employees’ contracts requiring them to “maintain the trust and confidence of the Official Secretary” will be removed.

Management executives have also been ordered to undergo extra leadership training and all departing staff will be offered exit interviews.

Mrs Rideout, who was not provided with a copy of the final report, was saddened by the outcome but said she would close that chapter of her life.

Former employee Donna Rideout revealed relentless mistreatment had driven her to the brink of suicide. . Picture: NIGEL HALLETT

“They’ve had enough of my mind and my time,” she said.

“It’s disappointing, but it’s time to move on.”

Mrs Rideout, inspired in March by the tens of thousands of women across Australia who rallied for respect, laid out her grievance in a heartbreaking dossier sent directly to Mr de Jersey.

The Governor and former Queensland Chief Justice acknowledged the mother of two for speaking out.

“I want to acknowledge the significance of your coming forward and publicly airing your concerns,” he wrote to Mrs Rideout.

“Your actions gave others the confidence to share their own experiences.

“When Kaye (de Jersey) and I leave Government House later this year, we will do so with very fond memories of so many fine employees who have given so much.”