Media release – Australian Services Union, 14 November 2021
Union Call to Sack Councils
In an explosive letter to local government minister Roger Jaensch, the Australian Services Union has asked for the sacking of Latrobe and Kentish Councils and the appointment of an Administrator.
The union’s principal concern is the failure of the councils and executive management to act on the toxic workplace that is causing severe harm to workers and has seriously affected the councils’ operation.
Australian Services Union executive president Billy King said Kentish and Latrobe Councils had failed to provide a safe workplace for employees and failed to address the toxic culture.
“Both Kentish and Latrobe Councils are aware of the very serious allegations of ongoing bullying that is causing psychological harm to workers, but they have failed to act and have exposed workers to greater harm.”
“The only way for the entrenched and dangerous workplace culture to change is by the Minister for Local Government intervening to have the councils and General Manager removed.”
“Every worker has a right to a safe workplace that does not cause them physical, emotional or psychological harm,” Mr King said.
Tasmanian legislation protects employees and members of the public who ‘blow the whistle’ on local government entities and individuals involved with those entities.
Following recent events, the ASU will be visiting the councils to conduct a health check in accordance with Work Health and Safety legislation.
