Child protection workplace review prompts changes
A review of workplace culture has prompted changes for child protection workers in Ballarat - including among managerial staff, The Courier understands.
Several sources have told The Courier changes were made at the organisation, where staff are tasked with looking after some of the most vulnerable children in the area, as a result of the review.
A Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) spokesperson confirmed several measures had come out of the work, which was carried out last year.
However, they would not confirm any changes to the job structure, saying they were "unable to provide comment on individual matters regarding our staff".
The review was conducted by independent investigator Julius Roe last August.
Details of plans for a "comprehensive" probe into the working conditions for DHHS employees were seen by The Courier.
We're always working to facilitate a strong culture of safety in the workplace, and staff wellbeing is an extremely important part of that.
DHHS statement
It took place to address concerns - including about workload and the handling of complaints - raised by child protection staff within the Central Highlands area.
An internal document cited "pressures and challenges" facing employees. At least one allegation concerned bullying against a senior member of staff.
The review was aimed to help staff and the leadership team feel "safe and supported" at work, the document said.
Both the DHHS and the Community and Public Sector Union (CPSU) are understood to have agreed that Mr Roe, who was previously Fair Work Commissioner and national president of the Australian Manufacturing Workers Union, should carry out the review.
The DHHS said 70 staff from the Central Highlands Child Protection team were invited to take part in the review last year.
"We recognise a positive workplace culture has positive effects on clients."
They said that since it took place there had been improvements in the way workload had been managed among the team.
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They also said a number of vacancies had since been filled and that staff had expressed satisfaction about progress "to build a more positive work environment".
In a statement to The Courier, a spokesperson said: "We're always working to facilitate a strong culture of safety in the workplace, and staff wellbeing is an extremely important part of that."
"This review was part of our work to support child protection practitioners through better investments in workplace wellbeing, access to effective training and other opportunities for staff."
They highlighted a Victorian government investment to allow for the "biggest ever expansion" in Victoria's child protection staff, so the workload could be shared among more people.
They also noted that staff had access to counselling including six extra sessions every year under the Child Protection Health Program.
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