Planning Minister Rob Stokes has declared his office is a "harmonious workplace" and made an impassioned defence of his staff, while refusing to be drawn on reports 13 people have left in the past year.
It came as Labor's Adam Searle was rebuked by parliamentary colleagues for attempting to identify which staff member was the subject of bullying allegations reported by The Australian.
Mr Stokes told budget estimates that reports of a "toxic" environment within his office were "allegations based on innuendo and smear".
"I will not tolerate bullying in my office," Mr Stokes said.
Adam Searle. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Damian Shaw