Abuse of Staff Will Not be Tolerated

A spate of attacks on staff in recent weeks has Tablelands Regional Council’s (TRC’s) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Mayor calling for respect.

‘Threats of violence, and verbal and physical abuse of our staff are totally unacceptable and will not be tolerated,’ said CEO Dr Nikola Stepanov.

‘We unequivocally condemn this cowardly behaviour, which is despicable and utterly unacceptable.

‘Our staff are members of the community who are working with you to ensure the future of our region.

‘They have a right to feel safe and respected in their workplace and our community’.

‘Respect is an important part of our organisational culture and we use it to contribute to a positive atmosphere that benefits the staff and community.

‘If any member of the public has a problem with me, or any aspect of TRC, then make an appointment to meet with me in person.

‘We can have a respectful and rational discussion about your concerns without resorting to inappropriate behaviour targeting staff who are simply trying to go about their working day peacefully and productively,’ Dr Stepanov said.

In echoing the CEO’s words, Mayor Rod Marti said the disrespectful behaviour not only affects the person on the receiving end, it also erodes community and team morale and trust.

‘Our staff are our most valuable asset and mistreatment can lead to long-term psychological harm.

‘We will not condone any behaviour that is to the detriment of our staff.

‘And while we have seen several of these incidents in the last few weeks we appreciate that this poor behaviour is not representative of our broader region.

‘We know this because we receive a large number of community compliments each month recognising our staff and their work,’ Mayor Marti said.

Contact TRC on info@trc.qld.gov.au, 1300 362 242 or at a customer service centre if you have concerns you would like to raise.