‘Lack of trust’: Fire service set for reform amid bullying fears

An independent review of the Queensland Fire Department has identified a “culture of silence” among staff who may have been bullied or harassed.

Investigators compiling the report into complaint management found a “pervasive lack of trust” and “fear of retribution” within the organisation.

“The issue of trust was raised repeatedly in focus groups. ‘Why bother’ was a common comment and underlying theme from some employees. This breakdown in trust has fostered a culture of silence, where issues are often concealed rather than escalated,” states the report, released on Friday.

The Queensland Fire Department is set for sweeping reforms after a review raised questions over its workplace culture.Credit: File image, supplied

“The fear of retribution, coupled with a perceived lack of independence in investigations, has created a climate where individuals feel unsafe to speak up.

“There was also a belief expressed by many in focus groups that there was never any ‘perpetrator accountability’. People get off ‘Scot free’.”

Prominence Consulting, which prepared the report, was restricted from detailing specific cases. But it warned the chain of command structure required in emergency situations could not only strengthen teams but undermine them.

“While this has demonstrated camaraderie, the practice has inadvertently shielded perpetrators and discouraged formal complaints,” the report states.

“A ‘shop floor justice’ mentality undermines the integrity of official grievance procedures and reinforces a culture of impunity.

Thirty-four recommendations to improve the complaints management process have been made. The QFD and the incumbent Labor government agreed to adopt all but one.

“I have been clear and the Commissioner has been clear: we will not tolerate behaviour that doesn’t uphold QFD’s values,” Minister for Fire and Disaster Recovery Nikki Boyd said in a statement.

“The vast majority of QFD staff and volunteers are good people who want to do good things for Queensland communities and keep them safe.”

Commissioner Steve Smith said changing from a service to a department provided an opportunity for the organisation to lift standards and engender confidence in how internal complaints will be handled.

“My clear intent is that QFD provides a caring, connected and supportive workplace for the exceptional people who make this department what it is,” Smith said.

“That is what we strive to live up to every day and what we stand for.”

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