An Industrial Relations inquiry has been called in NSW after revelations of a troubling irony; WorkCover NSW may be rife with workplace bullying.

Media reports say a senior employee at WorkCover was “systematically bullied” out of his position. David Shoebridge, the Greens MP who recommended the inquiry, said mistreatment had been a problem at WorkCover for years, with “reviews and promises” failing to find a solution.

Shoebridge has said the ongoing bullying at the offices of the department meant to guard workers from exactly that behaviour, is clearly unacceptable.

A WorkCover NSW representative said the body welcomed the Parliamentary Inquiry, and that considerable progress had already been made to build a positive culture at the offices.