The Morning Edition They might rescue you from danger. But is Westpac Rescue safe?
Oct 20, 2025
Eryk Bagshaw, an investigative reporter known for uncovering critical stories, delves into the Westpac Rescue Service's troubling culture. He reveals allegations of sexual harassment and bullying that have plagued the organization, particularly affecting female staff like Stacey Price, the first female training coordinator. Safety concerns are also highlighted, including lapses in training certification that may jeopardize both staff and patients. Eryk discusses the treatment of whistleblowers and the ongoing investigation into these issues, raising questions about transparency and accountability.
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Scale And Role Of Westpac Rescue
- The Westpac Rescue Service runs large-scale helicopter rescues from Newcastle to the Queensland border and performs thousands of missions annually.
- It is the largest of eight Westpac-sponsored services and handles highly technical, perilous work often funded largely by government contracts.
Stacey Price's Six Years Of Harassment
- Stacey Price says she spent six years trying to raise training and safety standards as the service's first female registered training coordinator.
- She alleges sustained bullying, sexual harassment, and targeting that made work unbearable.
Graphic Harassment Allegations
- Price recounts crude sexualised comments and degrading talk, including being asked if she was "a pig on a spit" and suggestions about being assaulted with objects.
- She describes men throwing mankinis on desks and complaints being laughed off, creating fear among women.