Prison officer allegedly sexually harassed

The Western Australian Labor Inspectorate is taking legal action against the state’s Department of Corrections after a prison guard was allegedly bullied and sexually harassed while working at Bunbury Regional Prison.

WorkSafe has launched a criminal prosecution against the Department of Justice for allegedly failing to provide and maintain a safe working environment and, through that alleged failure, causing serious harm to a worker.

“It is alleged that the department’s failure to have procedures in place to address inappropriate behavior in the workplace caused harm to an employee, a prison officer,” the watchdog said.

“The alleged inappropriate behavior included bullying, harassment (including sexual harassment) and victimization.”

“As the case is now before the courts, WorkSafe will have no further comment.”

If the crime is proven, the Justice Department could face a maximum fine of $3.5 million.

The matter will be heard at Bunbury Magistrates Court on November 7.

The announcement marks the first time that WorkSafe has taken criminal action for psychosocial issues under current legislation.

Bunbury Regional Prison is a men’s prison in southwest Washington.