Government House staff slam anti-bullying helpline as ‘toothless’

Government House staff say they’re still working in a “hostile” environment despite an anti-bullying helpline being set up in the wake of claims of fear and intimidation.

A Government House anti-bullying program introduced following whistleblower claims about a culture of fear and intimidation has been slammed as ‘toothless’ by frustrated staff.

The bullying outreach program was established for staff working within the Office of the Governor – the administration arm which runs the house and responsibilities of Queensland Governor Paul de Jersey – following previous claims of bullying within the office.

Six former staff last year claimed verbal abuse made working at the house unbearable.

It is understood Mr de Jersey was largely unaware of the toxic situation.

Allegations of malicious comments and internal conflict, first published in The Courier-Mail last year, prompted Government House to implement new procedures to “strengthen” its workplace culture and promote “a safe working environment for staff”.

“These include access for staff to channels outside the Office management structure for the independent raising of concerns on issues such as bullying,” the Government House Annual Report noted.

Allegations of bullying have plagued Government House in Brisbane.

It is understood the channels include an employee assistance program, where staff can speak confidentially about their concerns.

However, staff said the program is ineffective at addressing bullying concerns and declared their work “atmosphere” remains hostile.

“It’s toothless,” one worker said of the program.

A Government House spokesman said it was a “positive and safe working environment for all staff”.

“The Office has in place a full range of contemporary HR policies and procedures, including the provision for all staff to access independent advice and support when raising workplace concerns,” he said.

Last year The Courier-Mail revealed discontent within the Office of the Governor, including claims by one staffer who said malicious comments were made against workers in a pattern of bullying behaviour dating as far back as 2015.

Another said she took leave for mental health problems after she claims she was told to “grow a dick”.

In the 2019-20 financial year, six of the organisation’s 45 staff left Government House.

The Office of the Governor said it remained a “safe and stable work environment”, with long-term data revealing the average length of service was 7.4 years with six staff serving for more than two decades. 

The staff turnover is slightly lower than the previous year when nine people left.