Former AFP employee Julie Woodward found dead amid claims of toxic bullying culture

A former AFP and Victoria Police employee took her own life in Melbourne on Monday, after she wrote to both organisations about their bullying culture.

The Australian Federal Police and Victoria Police community has been rocked by the sudden death of a former employee in Melbourne.

Julie Woodward, 43, was discovered dead inside a Melbourne hotel by police conducting a welfare check on Monday.

Her death is not being treated as suspicious.

Before her death, Ms Woodward reportedly sent letters accusing the AFP and Victoria Police of having a toxic bullying culture.

Last month she shared a post with friends on Facebook outlining her struggles and getting help.

Former AFP employee Julie Woodward was discovered dead in non suspicious circumstances on Monday.

“You can post a suicide prevention phone number all you want but if you really want to help prevent suicide, depression and self harm, stop being such a – holes to each other online and in real life,” the October 16 post read.

Ms Woodward’s tragic death follows a string of police suicides in recent months.

Last week an on-duty Victoria Police sergeant was found dead in non-suspicious circumstances in Malmsbury.

And two Victoria Police senior constables and a retired detective sergeant also took their lives within four days of each other in August.

Ms Woodward was employed by the AFP as a Criminal Intelligence Analyst between February and August 2019.

Julie Woodward.

Woodward formerly worked as a Victoria Police public servant.

An AFP spokesman said her employment was ceased on August 13 “as part of the probation process” but he would not provide a reason for it.

“This is a terrible time for Julie’s family and friends and the AFP would like to offer its sincere condolences,” said the AFP spokesman.

Ms Woodward had previously worked for other policing agencies including Victoria Police.

Victoria Police is investigating her death and has prepared a report for the Coroner.

The investigation will be oversighted by Professional Standards Command.

“Victoria Police is extremely saddened to learn of the death of a former employee in Melbourne,” said a spokesman.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with her family, friends and former colleagues in Victoria Police.”

Victoria Police confirmed it received a letter sent by Ms Woodward prior to her death and the contents would form part of the investigation.

“While it is early days in the investigation, we can confirm that prior to her death she sent us a letter which speaks about her experiences at Victoria Police and other policing agencies,” said the spokesman.

Retired detective sergeant Steve Mansell took his life in August.

“While it is inappropriate to comment on aspects of the letter, it is important to state that Victoria police has and continues to invest heavily in welfare support for staff and we are strongly committed to creating workplaces that are safe, inclusive and respectful.”

An AFP spokesman said Ms Woodward had access to a “holistic suite” of support services including a welfare officer network, psychologists, and social workers.

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“This support is part of the AFP’s commitment to delivering holistic approach to supporting all AFP members’ health through access to a range of clinical health professionals using a multidisciplinary approach,” said the spokesman.

“The AFP uses an evidence based approach to health support and recognises individuals can elect to engage with the AFP health team or their own treating practitioners.

“Over the past two years specifically, the AFP has demonstrated that the physical and mental health of our people is a high priority by engaging professional expertise and support from both inside and outside Australia.”