The state’s outgoing Integrity Commissioner alleges she was called a derogatory term by a Public Service Commission boss, a claim which he has denied.

Nikola Stepanov told a parliamentary committee focusing on a review into her office she had been called “a bitch on a witch hunt”.

“I support a modern public service where women and men, particularly those emerging as leaders, are not subject to those kinds of gender-based slurs,” she told the committee.

“I had already heard it, but then I was called that term by him in a phone call on or about April 4, 2018.”

Dr Stepanov has also revealed she will be obligated to stay in her role until December 30.

She hopes to overhaul the lobbyist code of conduct before leaving.

Public Service Commission CEO Rob Setter responded this afternoon, saying he was “appalled and saddened” by the allegations.

“I deny absolutely making any misogynistic comments to or about the Integrity Commissioner, at any time,” the statement read.

“I am saddened because the Integrity Commissioner has felt it necessary to use parliamentary privilege to raise her concern in this way.

“The Commissioner has never raised this with me directly.

“Nor am I aware that the Commissioner has referred her concerns to any other authority.”

Professor AJ Brown from Griffith University’s Centre for Governance and Public Policy told Scott Emerson if the allegation is true, it’s not a good look.

Press PLAY below to hear his insights

Image: Queensland Parliament