E-Petition

Queensland residents draws to the attention of the House that they want the Queensland Government to undertake a coronial inquest into systemic bullying and toxic culture in Queensland Councils.

A coronial inquest is held:
1) if the attorney-general directs an inquest be held; or
2) to prevent similar deaths in the future; or
3) if it’s in the public interest; or
4) an inquest may prevent future deaths or uncover systemic issues that affect public health and safety.

The CCC's report into Ipswich City Council found:
a) a culture of corruption, improper use of power and inappropriate relationships
b) an abusive attitude towards council officers
c) staff were discouraged by the culture which engendered apathy, with staff feeling there was no point in reporting what they knew or suspected
d) allegations of councillors harassing staff, making threats against them to ruin their career
e) several staff were fearful if they had made a complaint and they would lose their jobs
f) an unhealthy culture which resulted in corruption, bullying and graft
 
On 25 March 2018, Ipswich council's HR manager tragically took his life.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to call on the Attorney General and the Ministers to exercise their power under the relevant Acts and in the public interest to call a coronial inquest into Queensland Local Councils, in particular the deaths of staff at Ipswich City Council.