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Inside the allegedly toxic rescue service, masked by a ‘god amongst men’ reputation
Whistleblowers allege ignored sexual harassment and bullying claims forced some employees out, prompting an independent review by Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service leadership.
- The Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service said it would move quickly to investigate claims, denying endemic safety or cultural issues while CEO Steven Underwood announced an independent review.
- After media reports, whistleblowers told the Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes they were left broken and forced out, alleging managers ignored sexual harassment and bullying; the service confirmed three whistleblower complaints in 2022 and 2023.
- SafeWork NSW said it was aware of media reports but had not received direct reports; under NSW WHS laws, employers must protect psychological health and workers can use the Speak Up tool or call 13 10 50.
- NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park described the allegations as concerning and said officials were very concerned when first informed, while NSW Ambulance is working with the contractor and the service said it was deeply disappointed and sorry any employee received such treatment.
- The service has a decades-long profile, brought to Newcastle 50 years ago with the first rescue helicopter launched on December 7, 1975, while Westpac called for a full independent investigation and support.
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12 Articles
12 Articles
Sydney Morning Herald+3 Reposted by 3 other sources
Inside the allegedly toxic rescue service, masked by a ‘god amongst men’ reputation
Staff at Westpac Rescue have allegedly been left broken amid claims of sexual harassment, bullying and victimisation within the iconic organisation.
·Sydney, Australia
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Total News Sources12
Leaning Left7Leaning Right1Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution78% Left
Bias Distribution
- 78% of the sources lean Left
78% Left
L 78%
11%
11%
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