Premier Dominic Perrottet today said the NSW Government would offer its full support to the recommendations of the review by Elizabeth Broderick AO into bullying, harassment and sexual assault in NSW Parliament, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to make NSW Parliament a safe workplace for every person who works there.
The review was commissioned by the NSW Parliament and released today by the Presiding Officers.
“This review shines a light on a confronting reality, and I thank all the survivors whose bravery in participating will make our Parliament a safer place,” Mr Perrottet said.
“As Australia’s oldest Parliament, we must lead by example, and it is incumbent on every MP, every parliamentary office holder, and every party to do their part to make sure the incidents detailed in this report do not occur again.”
Mr Perrottet said the Government’s recent actions demonstrated its zero-tolerance approach to bullying, harassment and sexual assault.
“We have already taken action within Ministerial workplaces to implement the recommendations of a similar review conducted earlier this year, and we will fully support the Parliament in implementing the recommendations of this report too,” Mr Perrottet said.
Minister for Women and Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said this has been an important process for people to tell their stories and shine a light on unacceptable behaviour in the workplace.
“It is imperative that all workplaces, particularly Parliament, are held to the highest standard and ensure all employees feel safe, supported and heard,” Mrs Taylor said.
“My very strong message to those who don’t respect decency in this workplace is – your behaviour is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.”
As with similar reviews, the Broderick review reiterates the importance of rigorous and confidential processes to ensure complainants are confident to speak up, and are not silenced by fear.
Mr Perrottet said the NSW Government is committed to working with our parliamentary colleagues to ensure NSW Parliament is a safe and welcoming environment for everyone who works or visits. There is no place for bullying, harassment, or other misconduct – it cannot and will not be tolerated.
“We thank Ms. Broderick for her work in giving survivors a voice, and I look forward to working with Parliament’s presiding officers to put her recommendations into action,” Mr Perrottet said.