Male graduates allegedly ranked female colleagues based on physical appearance

An investigation is underway after a degrading list was uncovered within the federal infrastructure department, with male graduates allegedly ranking female colleagues by their looks.

Female graduates were allegedly ranked on a “hotties list” by their male colleagues at the federal infrastructure department sparking an investigation amid concerns about culture.

The damning revelations has prompted a rethink of future intakes, with young females outnumbered two to one in the program.

Department secretary Jim Betts on Monday confirmed he was aware of claims, raised by some females, that “certain male members of the graduate cohort had assembled a list, a degrading list which assessed them by their so-called hotness”.

“It is such a disgusting phrase,” Mr Betts told a Senate estimates hearing.

Department secretary Jim Betts with former NSW Planning and Public Spaces Minister Rob Stokes. Picture: Toby Zerna

Independent external investigators were recruited to assist the department with its inquiry, however, it was unable to “substantiate the existence of the list”.

Mr Betts said this did not mean that it did not exist, adding it had taken advice from the former sex discrimination commissioner to ensure that it took the appropriate steps.

In response, the department gathered the cohort to remind them of the “need for respect” in the workplace; ensured females were supported; and that some graduates were not working together to prioritise their safety.

Senator Bridget McKenzie was leading the questioning. Picture: Martin Ollman

Mr Betts said no one had been sacked but that could change if new information came to light.

“I would adopt the severest sanctions available,” he said.

The graduate program at the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts
is largely made up of people aged under 30 that are university educated.

“We will never have a future graduate program where the balance is two thirds male and one third female. It is unacceptable within a department that is 60 per cent overall,” Mr Betts said.

Department Secretary Jim Betts on Monday confirmed he was aware of claims. Picture: supplied

The shocking incident followed revelations that another government employee raised concerns that she was followed home from work.

Mr Betts said the person had been supported after the issue was raised.

However, he said the department’s ability to take action was either determined by the police or strong evidence.

Earlier in the hearing, Mr Betts also revealed he had a death threat made against him.

Mr Betts said the incident occurred after he was grilled at estimates in late May for wearing a T-shirt with an Aboriginal flag and a clenched fist during an all-staff meeting.

The controversial move had sparked a series of questions about whether he had been communicating a position in regards to the Voice referendum.