The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC) have released the Terms of Reference for their review into Ambulance Victoria (below). A number of members have expressed their concern about the fact that bullying is not listed in the ToR, which includes –
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“The nature, extent, drivers and impact of discrimination, sexual harassment and victimisation experienced by current and former staff and volunteers”
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Under the Equal Opportunity Act, the VEOHRC does not have coverage of bullying, except where it relates to another one of their matters (discrimination, sexual harassment etc).
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The majority of the bullying cases that we have dealt with at the AEAV could also be viewed as bullying as a result of discrimination, whether because the person being bullied is young, old, female, male, has raised an issue in their workplace or so on. Most of these categories may be a relevant factor in whether or not the case could be dealt with under the Equal Opportunity Act.
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The scope of the review is much broader than a specific complaint with VEOHRC. Because it considers the drivers and impact of discrimination, sexual harassment and victimisation, most bullying at AEAV will be considered as a part of the review.
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As always, every individual case is different, and we suggest you speak to us for advice and options about your individual matter.
