The petition of residents of the State of Queensland draws to the attention of the House the need to address urgently the current timeframes and procedures of work cover to victims of bullying and harassment. Victims are suffering enormously from abuse, mentally, physically, emotionally and procedures are impacting hugely on already suffering victims. Victims are in no position to enable them to think clearly, recall actions or defend themselves.

The Privacy Act must be applied to keep witnesses’ identities confidential as their statements are crucial to obtaining the truth. Witnesses are withdrawing their statements in fear of retaliation, including losing their jobs. This is appalling and it is accountable for victims to remain victims and the horrific abuse to continue. No decision should ever be made on paper work alone.

Your petitioners, therefore, request the House to amend time frames and procedures to work cover and work cover appeal acts.