'Maniacal' Kevin Rudd is a 'boss from hell', say fleeing staffers!

Canberra, Oct. 16 (ANI): Less than two years after Kevin Rudd took office as the Australian Prime Minister, more than half of his staff has left the cabinet.

Rudd, who had promised to rid Australia of workplace bullies, is described as "manic" by his staff, as he has emerged as a very "demanding" employer.

"He's demanding and a bit all over the place," News.com.au quoted one former staffer of the PM, as saying.

Another said: "He gives little in the way of constructive feedback. And he just doesn't listen to anybody."

At least 23 of 39 staff have left Rudd's office at a time when the next election is just one year away. Sources said more are set to follow suit.

In recent weeks, four senior advisors - including Jack Lake, a 25-year parliamentary veteran - have announced their departures, raising questions on Rudd's office management skills.

"That is a very high turnover rate. You need to look at the work environment and your recruitment (methods)," said Kathy Kostyrko, a recruitment expert.

Rudd has not apologised for the gruelling routine his staff has to undergo, and his department has already begun making replacements for the departed staffers.

A spokesman for Rudd said: "Political staff work is both rewarding and demanding - and working in the Prime Minister's Office is no exception." (ANI)