The ACT Commissioner for Public Administration, Andrew Kefford has today said his office is now examining a number of complaints of possible misconduct at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT).

"On 2 May 2012, The Canberra Times reported statements from me that I had received six new allegations of misconduct relating to CIT following the publication of a report by the Work Safety Commissioner on 12 April 2012.

"In the period since 2 May, I have received additional complaints about the workplace experiences of a number of current and former staff of the CIT," said Mr Kefford.

In total, concerns have been expressed about the workplace experiences of 39 individuals:

• the circumstances of 34 individuals are being examined by my Office; and
• five entirely new matters are being pursued by CIT under the supervision of my office.

These arrangements are in accordance with the statements by the Minister for Education and Training in the Legislative Assembly on 2 May 2012.

A total of 26 complaints have been received by my office, of which 16 have been received since 12 April 2012 when the Work Safety Commissioner published his report on CIT. The matters raised canvass issues including bullying and harassment, workers' compensation and return to work arrangements and workload issues.

"The complaints received are from current and former CIT staff, and in a small number of cases, students. While the number is concerning, I take as a vote of confidence in the processes in place, including the ACT Public Service Respect, Equity and Diversity Framework, that people are prepared to speak out about their concerns.

"All allegations will be examined by my Office, and a report provided to the Government and the Chief Executive of CIT.

"While the number of complaints is of concern, I would encourage any person holding information relevant to the examination of these or other complaints to raise those concerns with my office," said Mr Kefford.