‘Psychosocial hazards’ at TAFE investigated

The head of South Regional TAFE says he is satisfied leadership and cultural issues at the Albany campus are being addressed after a Public Sector Commission investigation.

The commission’s investigation into claims of poor culture and leadership at the Orana campus has resulted in a number of recommendations.

However, a spokeswoman for the commission said while the investigation had concluded, it would not publicly release the findings as it related to “individual officers”.

The investigation was prompted after a WorkSafe inspector issued notices in February requiring TAFE complete a risk assessment of “psychosocial hazards at the workplace”.

The Advertiser understands staff members had complained of the behaviour of some staff.

A staff member, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Advertiser TAFE “was a terrible place to work” with staff morale low.

South Regional TAFE managing director Duncan Anderson said he would not comment specifically on the investigation.

“It is not appropriate to comment on issues that impact individual staff members,” he said.

“I am satisfied that potential underlying drivers for negative culture have been identified, are being addressed and the college will continue to provide a fantastic service to Albany and the region.”

Education Minister Sue Ellery told the Advertiser she was aware of issues at the campus.

“Coming into Government, I was briefed on a range of matters in relation to cultural and leadership issues at Albany TAFE that occurred under the previous government,” she said. “I’m advised that all matters have been investigated and recommendations acted on.”