Three Western Power employees, who were stood down earlier this year after providing character references for a convicted rapist and work colleague, “no longer work for the business” following an investigation by law firm MinterEllison.
Energy Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson was furious to hear staff thought it acceptable to provide Jeffrey David Spinner with references during his court case.
Spinner’s victim was a fellow Western Power employee.
“Western Power has received and considered the findings of the independent investigation conducted by MinterEllison,” a statement released on Thursday, read.
“Following a thorough investigation, careful consideration of the findings and appropriate employment processes, the three individuals involved no longer work for the business.
“The investigation found conduct that was inconsistent with our values, code of conduct and the standards we expect of everyone at Western Power."
Business News asked Western Power if the trio resigned or were sacked?
"As this matter relates to individual employment issues, and out of respect for the privacy of those involved, Western Power will not be providing further comment," a spokesperson said.
On top of the MinterEllison inquiry, Ms Sanderson announced a review of the utility’s workplace culture.
It emerged that the Spinner case had prompted a former Western Power employee to provide an account of a separate sexual assault unrelated to him.
“We now need to let the independent review into broader cultural issues at Western Power run its course,” Ms Sanderson said on Thursday.
The scandal also prompted a broader government response with Attorney-General Tony Buti announcing an end to the character reference system in serious court cases.
“We’re removing the use of good character references for all offences,” he said.
“It is particularly pertinent to prevent the victims of child sex abuse, sex abuse and other offences from being retraumatised having to hear what a good bloke their offender is.”
