An independent culture review into two of Tasmania’s emergency service departments has been launched following recent allegations of inappropriate behaviour within the organisations.
State Fire Commission Chair Allan Garcia said the review into the Tasmania Fire Service (TFS) and State Emergency Service (SES) will help create a “workplace of choice with strong values and a positive and supportive culture”.
“Through this review, we will promote what we do well, call out what we don’t do well and build the TFS and SES as an inclusive, diverse and respectful place for everyone,” he said.
The review will be led by former Sex Discrimination Commissioner Elizabeth Broderick and her team at EB&Co.
In recent years, the TFS has faced a number of grievances and complaints about inappropriate workplace behaviours, including discrimination, bullying and sexual harassment.
“This behaviour is unacceptable and has no place in our organisation,” Garcia said.
“Volunteers, career firefighters and state service staff should be safe and feel safe in our workplaces.”
The review is currently in the state of gathering feedback from staff and volunteers through various interviews, group sessions, written submissions and a survey.
A final report will be submitted to the State Fire Commission in 2025 and made public along with a “Framework for Action”.
“We recognise that for some people this process may be confronting,” Fire and Emergency Services Commissioner Jeremy Smith said.
“We have a comprehensive confidential support program in place to assist staff and their families.”
