Parliamentary culture review welcome but not the panacea

2021-03-05

The Greens have cautiously welcomed today’s announcement into a review of workplace culture in Federal Parliament but say a culture review alone is not enough.

“This long-overdue review into workplace culture in parliament by the Sex Discrimination Commissioner is a promising step towards making our workplace safe for women, but the proof will be in the pudding of whether the Government acts on the recommendations once they are made,” said Larissa Waters, Greens Leader in the Senate and spokesperson on women.

“The Greens pushed for Kate Jenkins to lead the review, along with an early progress update and the inclusion of all current and former Parliament House staff and the press gallery, so we’re pleased the government has included these features.

“But this review doesn’t obviate the need for independent inquiries into both the mishandling of Brittany Higgins’ rape complaint, and the allegations of rape against Attorney-General Christian Porter.

“The Greens will keep calling out the Prime Minister for running a protection racket for the boys’ club, and presiding over a culture of cover-up.

“We need to make ALL workplaces safe. One year ago today, the Commissioner released a detailed and damning report into harassment in Australian workplaces and made 55 clear recommendations for reform. The government needs to urgently act on those recommendations.

“The women of Australia deserve better.”