"QUT once valued freedom of speech, diversity of thought and empowerment of teams and individuals. "That has now been replaced with a workplace where we are scared to speak up, let alone raise any issues for fear we will lose our jobs." The letter also said recent renovations featuring marble and private bathrooms demonstrated an "overt display of power ... while money is reduced in areas where it is actually needed". At the same time, the university axed 174 positions - but The Courier-Mail understands about 1500 contracts were also not renewed in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. One staff member told The Courier-Mail she was frequently "snapped at and spoken down to" by her senior leaders, leaving her feeling intimidated and incompetent at her job despite her many years of experience.