Chancellor State College employee alleges toxic work environment

A Sunshine Coast state school employee, who alleged she faced age discrimination at work, has told a court there was a “toxic work environment”.

Chancellor State College. May 23, 2018. (Photo AAP/Megan Slade)

A Sunshine Coast state school employee, who failed to convince a court she faced ageism discrimination from her manager, has attempted to claim back her used leave entitlements.

The court documents from the Queensland Industrial Relations Commission state administration officer at Chancellor State College, Vicki Baker, accused the school’s business manager of bullying and age discrimination.

The school’s principal, Brad Roberts, first responded to the allegations, which he found were examples of the business manager acting appropriately, according to the court documents.

“The conduct that the Appellant perceived as bullying were administrative decisions made by Ms Wheatley that were fair and reasonable,” the court documents stated.

“Mr Roberts further noted that moving forward, he was taking steps towards supporting Ms Wheatley and her team in ensuring a harmonious working environment. Mr Roberts determined to take no further action in relation to this complaint.”

Ms Baker then asked to have her annual leave and long service “re-credited” to her due to the alleged bullying, however Mr Roberts rejected the request, prompting her to take the matter to the commission.

According to the court documents, Ms Baker claimed the workplace was “toxic” and ageist.

“Significantly my complaints are not isolated. The Department failed to interview all personnel who had experienced similar concerns about the toxic work environment and in so doing, have further aggravated my distress and isolated my complaints from that of other staff members,” Ms Baker said according to court documents.

In one example provided, Ms Baker highlighted an email where the business manager said “I don’t want to put extra pressure on you at this time in your life so happy to help out.”

QIRC member Peter O’Neill found the emails provided by Ms Baker as evidence were “polite, conciliatory” and upheld Mr Roberts decision.

Chancellor State College has been contacted by this publication for comment.