Northern NSW rescue helicopter faces contract review after bullying and
An independent review found that one in five staff at the Northern NSW Rescue Helicopter Service experienced or witnessed sexual harassment.
An independent review of the Northern NSW Rescue Helicopter Service found big workplace culture problems. The safety records were strong.
One in five staff reported experiencing or witnessing sexual harassment. In the past year, 11 survey responders said this happened.
28 per cent of staff reported experiencing or witnessing bullying. They said poor accountability and justice processes were the problem.
The service agreed to all 31 recommendations. It started making urgent changes to show what behaviour is not okay.
The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service operates under a 10-year contract with NSW Ambulance on behalf of NSW Health. The contract ends in May 2027.
There is an option for a five-year extension. NSW Health is now looking at the contract options.
- 1 in 5 reported
- Staff sexual harassment
- 11 survey respondents
- Incidents past 12 months
- 28 per cent of staff
- Bullying reports
- 31 total
- Review recommendations
Why it mattersThe service's future depends on how well it addresses workplace safety issues. The government's contract decision will determine whether it continues in its current form.
AustraliaNorthern NSW residents relying on rescue helicopter services face uncertainty over whether the service will continue under current operators or face changes.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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