Ambulance Victoria has reportedly suspended six employees accused of fraudulently claiming overtime.

The allegations of serious misconduct suggest the employees, all from the payroll department, embezzled around $3.5 million.

“I’m deeply concerned about the allegations of this disgraceful behaviour,” Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said this week. 

The premier said the investigation will have to run its course and would not make further comments that might compromise it.

Ambulance Victoria says the allegations were initially raised with its chief executive in early 2023, leading it to refer the matter to the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC). 

The employees have been given an opportunity to respond as the investigation continues.

The union representing Ambulance Victoria's corporate staff has condemned the leak of the investigation details to the media. 

Ambulance Victoria's leadership is also accused of fostering a toxic workplace and resorting to a trial by media instead of adhering to good governance practices. 

A union representative said the leak appeared to be a desperate attempt by beleaguered senior officials to protect their positions.