The Deputy Ombudsman concluded that although the agency initially responded appropriately, it acted in error when it failed to promptly seek a formal medical opinion on the staff member’s capacity to respond to the investigation. The staff member was on paid leave for 19 months before medical advice was sought; the medical advice was not received until after the staff member resigned.

The Deputy Ombudsman made recommendations for policy improvement, retention of records, advising the complainant of the investigation’s outcome, and offering an apology to the complainant.

Access the summary statement here:

Summary Statement – Agency investigation of a sexual harassment complaint (PDF, 199.2 KB)

If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment or sexual assault, support is available:

• 1800RESPECT – National sexual assault, domestic and family violence counselling service: 1800 737 732 or text 0458 737 732
• Yarrow Place – South Australia’s Rape and Sexual Assault Service: 1800 817 421
• Lifeline – 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention: 13 11 14
• SA Police – For non‑urgent police assistance: 131 444