UWU is appalled by the recent breach of privacy at Austin Health, the Royal Melbourne Hospital and Peter Mac bathrooms.
If you are affected by this distressing matter in any way, Support Services are available 24/7 via 1800 MANERS (1800 626 377)
Members who have evidence to provide Victoria Police should contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online here.
Additionally, your union is here to support you should you have questions about the investigation or require further guidance.
Victoria Police is in the process of identifying affected employees using headshots and facial images. Ambulance Victoria will only have access to these images if Vic Pol is unable to identify the individuals through their own channels. Ambulance Victoria will not have access to any sensitive images.
Given the severity and sensitivity of this matter, Ambulance Victoria has stated that they will not be heavily involved within the investigation and will not seek to know the identities of affect employees unless those employees choose to notify AV directly.
The service will respect the employee’s privacy and only engage where necessary on request of Vic Pol.
Employees identified as being affected by the breach will be contacted directly by Vic Pol via phone.
Victoria Police has confirmed that there is no current evidence of footage having been uploaded to the internet, or that the alleged offender was working in conjunction with anyone else. The investigation is ongoing, and the union will provide updates as necessary.
All employees have a fundamental right to safety and privacy within their workplace. This breach has raised important questions about how employers can better deter such offenses through employee vetting, workplace policies, education, and by adapting private areas to prevent hidden surveillance. The union will continue to advocate for stronger safeguards and privacy protections across the workplace.