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'Unacceptable' Bullying, Harassment Across NSW Police
The review surveyed more than 5,100 current and former officers and found widespread fear of retaliation, with all 29 recommendations accepted.
On Thursday, an independent review revealed bullying, discrimination, and sexual harassment at "unacceptable levels" within the NSW Police Force, with the report led by former Human Rights Commissioner Kristen Hilton detailing systemic risks.
Commissioned in 2024 by former NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb, the review engaged more than 5,000 current and former staff to analyze accounts of "authoritarian" leadership styles and pervasive workplace intimidation.
Survey data shows 30 per cent of staff experienced bullying in the past five years, leaving them "scared, belittled or humiliated," while 25 per cent reported discrimination, with employees describing reporting misconduct as "career suicide."
NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon accepted all 29 recommendations on Thursday, stating that "behaviours such as bullying, discrimination, and harassment" are unacceptable and pledging to create a supportive workplace environment.
The force aims to implement reforms within a two-year timeframe, including appointing independent panellists for promotions and providing the executive team with 360-degree feedback to ensure greater accountability and leadership consistency.