Bosses at the Community Services Directorate recently wrote to staff, warning them that talking to media risked "reputational damage" to the facility.

"You may or may not be aware of the recent interest The Canberra Times has shown with the operation of the Bimberi Youth Justice Centre," director of people management Christine Murray wrote on Tuesday, March 21.

"Such stories can damage the reputation of the facility and of all staff that do great work here."

Ms Murray went on to "remind" staff of their responsibilities when dealing with journalists.

"Do not provide any information to the media or comment on any issues without approval," she said.

"I remind you that any unauthorised disclosure, or leaking, of official information is a breach of the Code of Ethics and potentially of the Crimes Act 1900 and will be investigated by the directorate.

"If you have any questions that you would like to raise, I would be happy to receive them directly via email," she added.

A number of sources have told The Canberra Times they did not feel comfortable raising their concerns with either management or the directorate.

One source said: "If the workplace was a good one, the directorate would have no issues with people speaking about it."

A spokesman for the Community Services Directorate has previously said that thoroughly investigating such issues could contribute to a stressful working environment.

"We acknowledge that such investigations are stressful for staff and can impact upon morale but we are committed to fully investigating allegations and maintaining a high standard in relation to the quality of care provided to young people," the spokesman said.

He added that this did not reflect any broader issues within the facility.

"The airing of these incidents at this time should not be seen as a reflection of general staff dissatisfaction nor of any systemic problems at Bimberi."