Queensland-based employees of the rail firm Aurizon say they have been bullied and gagged from talking to the media.

Aurizon is refusing to respond to claims made in local press The Morning Bulletin, which says current and former employees from the Rockhampton workshop had been bullied by managers.

A text message allegedly sent to the Bulletin stated: “Staff were encouraged not to talk to the media... that included emails and text messages about workplace issues.

“Seems like a raw nerve has been exposed about treatment to workers from certain managers.”

“Management is accountable for providing a safe workplace and will ensure matters are dealt with appropriately when the issues are raised with them,” an Aurizon spokesperson told reporters.

“Safety is the top priority for Aurizon and the company is absolutely committed to responding to any matters raised by employees.”

The spokesperson added that Aurizon was committed to increasing its workforce, especially at the largest maintenance facility in the region, Rockhampton.

There are currently close to 250 employees at the workshop.

But this number is set to increase soon, after the announcement of plans to axe 480 jobs and close Redbank and Townsville maintenance depots.

It is unclear whether any or all of the displaced workers from these closures could be added to the Rockhampton workforce.

Aurizon this week posted a 139 per cent increase in its full-year profit, after heavy cost-cutting last year.