An independent review into workplace culture within Parliament House has been announced today with sex discrimination commissioner Kate Jenkins to lead the inquiry.
The inquiry has been established in response to allegations made by formal Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins, who alleges she was raped in the office of Defence Minister Linda Reynolds.
Ms Higgins has since brought a formal complaint to police.
READ MORE: Brittany Higgins responds to 'lying cow' comment from Linda Reynolds
The allegations have sparked a national debate about the treatment of women in government institutions.
Minister for Finance Simon Birmingham – who has been asked to work with Labor on the inquiry – said parliament should "set examples" for the rest of Australia to follow.
"The parliament of Australia must reflect best practices in response to instances of bullying and sexual assault," he said.
"The prime minister has asked me to work across party lines to develop a review that would be truly at arm's length of the government.
READ MORE: 'Deeply sorry': Linda Reynolds apologises to Brittany Higgins
"The events and commentary of the last few weeks have been deeply distressing and confronting for many people right across Australia.
"It has been especially distressing and confronting for victims of harassment bulling and sexual abuse.
"The fact is that the parliament of Australia must set the example for others to follow."
Ms Jenkins will provide an update in July with the final report being handed down in November, which will be made public.
Ms Jenkins has been the sex discrimination commissioner since 2016.
READ MORE: Grace Tame criticises PM's response to Brittany Higgins rape claims
from 9News https://ift.tt/2PBW4ZS
via IFTTT
0 Comments