Peter Gutwein,Premier
The Terms of Reference for the independent review of relevant policies and practices associated with Parliament, Ministerial and Parliamentary services staff, and electorate offices have now been finalised.
Premier Peter Gutwein said the review would be conducted by Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Sarah Bolt and will focus on identifying any gaps and potential improvements in current policies and procedures.
“When it comes to workplaces, we must lead by example, and this review will identify what is working well, along with any barriers or gaps that need addressing,” the Premier said.
“This will allow us to identify any improvements to ensure we have best practice policies and procedures in place to firstly prevent, or if necessary, to support and work through concerns should they arise.
“I encourage anyone who wants to share their feedback or experiences to engage with this process and make a submission, which will be done in a safe and secure way with full confidentiality assured.
“I want to thank Ms Bolt for conducting this review and working with us to finalise the Terms of Reference, along with other members of Parliament, including both opposition parties, and the Independent Member for Clark Kristie Johnston, and the Independent Member for Nelson, Meg Webb, who have engaged with us through this process.”
Anti-Discrimination Commissioner Sarah Bolt said the review would be conducted under safe and supportive conditions to ensure trust and foster open engagement.
“I am both delighted and pleased to have been asked to lead this significant and important work,” Ms Bolt said.
“I want to reiterate that my role is to look at systemic issues, so that gaps related to workplace culture, policies and practices can be properly identified and addressed accordingly.
“I am mindful that the success of any review is dependent upon the level of participation and engagement of key stakeholders and I would encourage individuals that come forward, to please take the time to engage in the process and the opportunity to influence and make a positive difference.”
A committee comprising members of both houses of Parliament has been established to support the work of the Reviewer and to lead implementation of any accepted recommendations upon completion of the review.
The Terms of Reference can be found at: https://www.dpac.tas.gov.au/independent_review_into_parliamentary_practices_and_procedures_to_support_workplace_culture
