Alysha: Ashley whistleblower case settles after bitter legal fight

The woman who blew the whistle on child abuse at the Ashley Youth Detention Centre has settled her long-running legal action with the state.

Alysha (surname withheld) holds a press conference on Parliament lawns after having long running difficulties with sexual assessment claims while working at Ashley Youth Detention Centre. Picture: Richard Jupe

THE long-running workers compensation claim between the Ashley Youth Detention Centre whistleblower and the state government has been settled out of court.

Clinical Practice Consultant Alysha* went public with claims of abuse at the facility in 2020.

She gave extensive evidence about the facility at the Commission of Inquiry into the Tasmanian Government’s responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Institutional Settings.

The state government announced in September 2021 that the detention centre would close in 2024.

Alysha lodged a claim for post traumatic stress disorder she suffered in the workplace in the course of her employment.

She was forced to undergo six psychiatric examinations as the government fought the case.

Lengthy negotiations revolved the case after three years last week,

On Wednesday, Alysha said it was the end of a difficult chapter.

“My family and I are extremely relieved to have settled my matter with my employer, the Tasmanian Government late last week.

“This matter has taken a tremendous toll on many, and ought never to have been necessary.

“Workplace safety is important, as is dealing with injuries appropriately and compassionately when they do occur. I hope my matter may serve to shine a light on some inadequacies in this process and the importance of Trauma Informed Practice in all that we do.

She thanked her legal team, Angela Sdrinis and Bruce McTaggart, SC, for their commitment to justice, victim-survivors, kindness and support, as well as the state government for allowing the matter to draw to a close.

“I wish to thank the community from the bottom of my heart, in Tasmania and Australia for their unwavering support in shining a light on some dark areas that warrant attention from us all,” she said.

“I also, have the utmost faith in the Commission of Inquiry into Tasmanian Government responses to Institutional Child Sexual Abuse and look forward to all recommendations being implemented after their report is released in May.

“Most importantly, I want to thank my loved ones, friends and beautiful family – for their unwavering love, support and encouragement over a three-and-a-half-year year struggle we did not deserve.”

Alysha said the case had taken a toll on her health and she was looking forward to spending time with her family without the strain of the ongoing litigation.

“I remain committed to child safety, government integrity and transparency matters - and stand firmly — with all victim survivors, but particularly the victim-survivors of Ashley Youth Detention Centre.

“Their courage and resilience started this, and I believe, will end it too. You will forever inspire me.”

Alysha resigned from the Tasmanian Public Service last Thursday.

* surname withheld