The Attorney-General has refused to weigh in on concerns raised about the new Queensland Human Rights Commissioner, following an event that left staff in tears and led to concerns about possible conflict of interest.
This masthead exclusively revealed details of a planning day for employees in March, which was organised to work on tweaks to the independent agency’s strategic plan.
New boss Debbie Platz did not attend, but a presentation given by Anne Macdonald, founding director of charity Uniforms 4 Kids, left some staff visibly upset and concerned.
Sources at the event described what they felt was insensitive and racist language.
“Any of these allegations, and I understand that that’s what they are, are a matter for the human rights commissioner,” Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said at Parliament House on Sunday.
Pressed further on if the government was concerned by the reports from staff, the minister did not elaborate.
“That’s all I can say,” she replied.
“It’s an independent body, the human rights commissioner is doing her job … and any of those allegations that have been alleged to the human rights commissioner should be addressed with her as an independent commissioner.”
The independent commission and commissioner is accountable to the Attorney-General.
Sources said the incident and its handling reinforced concerns about Platz’s background, approach, and disconnect with the office’s statutory role to prevent discrimination and uphold human rights.
Macdonald made comments to staff suggesting she and Platz were friends, according to those who were there. It later emerged the commissioner’s husband – Glenn Ferguson AM – chaired the charity, which had been founded by her mother.
“[That] for me, is a huge red flag in terms of a conflict of interest … regardless of whether or not the charity is a great cause,” one source said.
In a phone interview on Friday, Macdonald said she was devastated to hear how her comments had been perceived.
“I am so, so sorry … and I apologise unreservedly,” Macdonald said.
In a written response to questions, Platz said she was aware of the language and behaviour of Macdonald, which she deemed “unacceptable in any circumstances”.
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Matt Dennien is a reporter at Brisbane Times covering state politics and the public service. He has previously worked for newspapers in Tasmania and Brisbane community radio station 4ZZZ. Contact him securely on Signal @mattdennien.15Connect via email.From our partners
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