Consultation on restorative engagement a critical step for Ambulance Victoria

5 July 2023

During the first phase of our independent review into workplace equality at Ambulance Victoria, the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission recommended the establishment of a restorative engagement scheme as a critical part of work to address past harms and to start to rebuild trust within the organisation.

‘I commend Ambulance Victoria and the Victorian Government for progressing this important recommendation from our independent review which will continue building a safer, fairer and more inclusive culture at Ambulance Victoria,’ says Ro Allen, Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commissioner.

During the first phase of our review, we heard from many current and former staff and first responders about experiences of unlawful and harmful workplace conduct that had not been believed by Ambulance Victoria or had been left unresolved.

‘Restorative engagement schemes can benefit both the organisation and individuals. They can empower victim-survivors with a voice and a safe place to be heard and understood, providing validation and a sense of justice,’ says Commissioner Allen.

Restorative engagement schemes provide an important forum for an organisation to bear witness to harms experienced by staff, rebuild working relationships and facilitate organisational learning. They can offer a range of outcomes for current and former staff who have experienced harm, such as an individual apology, a statement of regret or financial compensation.

‘It is heartening to hear Ambulance Victoria board chair Shelly Park and CEO Jane Miller apologise to any staff and first responders who have experienced harm through their work at Ambulance Victoria. This kind of visible leadership commitment is critical to the ongoing cultural reform process,’ says Commissioner Allen.

‘If the scheme delivers the results we anticipate, my hope is that it will help resolve past harms for many Ambulance Victoria employees and first responders. For those who have left the organisation because of past experiences of harm, I hope it will demonstrate Ambulance Victoria’s commitment to cultural reform and create the right conditions for them to consider returning.’

If you have experienced discrimination, sexual harassment or vilification, contact our Enquiry Line on 1300 292 153 for more information about your rights and how you can make a complaint.

Media contact

Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission
Phone: 1300 292 153
Email: enquiries@veohrc.vic.gov.au

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