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Commission audit examines Ambulance Victoria’s progress towards workplace equality

21 January 2025

 

A report released today by the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Humans Rights Commission (VEOHRC) evidences the progress made and the need for ongoing efforts at Ambulance Victoria to ensure it becomes a safe, fair and inclusive workplace. 

The Progress Evaluation Audit report assesses Ambulance Victoria’s progress against 25 priority recommendations made by the Commission in 2022 as part of its Independent Review into Workplace Equality in Ambulance Victoria. The Commission’s audit marks the final phase of the review, enabling Ambulance Victoria to critically reflect at the halfway point of its resulting transformation. The review commenced in 2020 after allegations of discrimination, sexual harassment, bullying and victimisation within the organisation, primarily against women.

The audit finds that Ambulance Victoria has fully implemented 5 out of 25 priority recommendations for the organisation to prevent and respond effectively to unlawful and harmful workplace conduct and improve compliance with the Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Ambulance Victoria has partially implemented or commenced a further 18 of the priority recommendations and is yet to commence implementing 2 recommendations.  

Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner, Ro Allen, said that Ambulance Victoria’s establishment of a Professional Standards and Behaviours Department and an anonymous complaints service in response to the Commission’s recommendations has been its most significant step toward achieving change. 

“Every individual has the right to work in an environment free from discrimination, harassment, bullying and victimisation. By law, organisations must proactively ensure the safety of their employees and hold perpetrators accountable for their behaviour,” said Commissioner Allen.  

“I commend Ambulance Victoria for implementing a robust internal complaint reporting and management system—a critical step toward fostering a respectful, inclusive culture where every voice is heard and valued,” they said. 

The Progress Evaluation Audit saw the Commission collect and analyse more than 1,900 written documents and conducted observational shifts, a workforce survey, and individual and group interviews with leaders, paramedics and corporate employees to determine the adequacy and early impacts of Ambulance Victoria’s actions to implement the Commission’s 25 priority recommendations. The audit also reveals systemic enablers and barriers for Ambulance Victoria to successfully embed change within the organisation.   

While participants noted Ambulance Victoria’s delivery of some reforms, their feedback delivered scepticism about the real impact and expressed concern that their negative experiences in the workplace will not improve.  

Commissioner Allen said that while the organisation had shown dedication and commitment to building a better working environment, Ambulance Victoria has more to do to eliminate workplace harm and embed equality. 

“Transforming organisational culture to create a safe, fair and inclusive workplace is not a tick-box exercise; it demands effective communication, timeliness and sustained dedication to rebuild employee trust and confidence. 

“As the Commission’s independent review concludes, I’m confident that Ambulance Victoria’s leaders are committed to change – but they must continue to drive meaningful, lasting change for the benefit of their people and all Victorians who rely on their life-saving service,” said Commissioner Allen. 

VEOHRC made a total of 43 recommendations to Ambulance Victoria in 2021 and 2022 as part of its Independent Review into Workplace Equality in Ambulance Victoria. Ambulance Victoria and has committed to implementing all recommendations by 2027. The Commission thanks members of the organisation’s workforce who shared their concerns, experiences and perspectives throughout the review, which began when courageous whistleblowers spoke up about unlawful conduct. 

The Commission is committed to supporting workplace equality at Ambulance Victoria through our advocacy of stronger legal protections and meaningful change for all people in Victoria. 

The review outcomes continue to invite organisational leaders to consider how they are fulfilling their legal obligation to prevent and respond to workplace harm in Victoria. 

People who have experienced vilification, discrimination, sexual harassment or victimisation can make a report to us via theCommunity Reporting Toolor contact the VEOHRC’s Enquiry Line on 1300 292 153. We can help you understand your rights and how you can make a complaint if you choose to. It’s a free and confidential service. 

If you are a current or former Ambulance Victoria employee, first responder or volunteer, you can also reference our support service and referral directory to help you find the support you need.  

Read the Progress Evaluation Audit report. 

 

 

Media contact 

Strategic Communications
Mobile: 0447 526 642
Email: communications@veohrc.vic.gov.au 

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Address
Level 3, 204 Lygon Street Carlton Victoria 3053

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enquiries@veohrc.vic.gov.au

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The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission acknowledges that we work on the traditional lands of the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nation. We also work remotely and serve communities on the lands of other Traditional Custodians.

We pay our respects to their Elders past and present.