Optus cops backlash after hiring stripper to perform at office Christmas party
Optus has been forced to re-evaluate staff social events after employees were subjected to a male stripper at their office Christmas party last year.
The telco giant has backflipped on previous denials of booking the stripper after footage of the male performer’s act emerged on social media.
Video on Instagram shows the male, scantily dressed with just a golden tassel covering his genitals, performing his racy dance routine in front of a screaming crowd.
In other footage the man can be seen in the lap of an employee, and reportedly poured wine over his body.
One female employee who attended the party told the Australian Financial Review the act was not appropriate for the occasion.
“If it were to be a topless or pants-less female on stage carrying on in that manner there would be complete uproar,” she told the publication.
“Why should there be a double standard? This should never be acceptable.”
An Optus spokesperson told Yahoo 7 the performance in question does not reflect the broader values of the company.
“We evaluate feedback from guests and while the overwhelming majority of guests were supportive of the performances last year, we have made changes to our entertainment policy to ensure future performances reflect Optus’ values,” the spokesperson said in a statement.
It is understood the organiser of the event is no longer with the company.
