An independent investigation has been launched into allegations of bullying and inappropriate behaviour against Tasmanian Attorney-General Elise Archer.
At least two current or former staff members of Ms Archer have raised the claims with Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Sarah Bolt, according to the ABC.
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff confirmed the investigation after a matter was raised with him ‘through a third party’.
Ms Archer said she took the allegations “extremely seriously” and welcomes the independent investigation.
“I always strive to provide my team with a happy and healthy workplace,” she said.
“I deeply value the exceptional work of my team, many of whom come to me for short periods of time from departments and who have diligently performed the challenging work required of ministerial staff.”
Turnover in Ms Archer’s office has been a subject of concern in recent years, with a document released under right to information laws revealing that multiple staff members have left since 2019.
Ms Archer has been attorney-general since 2018 and also holds ministerial responsibility for workplace safety.
Labor’s Dean Winter and Leader of Opposition Business in the House of Assembly has called on the Premier to “stand Attorney-General Elise Archer down while an investigation into serious allegations of workplace bullying takes place”.
“Given the seriousness of these allegations, Jeremy Rockliff can’t guarantee the safety of staff in the Attorney’s office while Archer is still there,” Winter said.
