Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins will lead a review of Parliament House’s workplace culture after rape allegations rocked federal politics.
Former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins triggered the inquiry after she went public with sexual assault allegations against a former male colleague.
The alleged 2019 rape sparked heavy criticism of the treatment of women in politics and revelations of other misconduct.
Government Senate leader Simon Birmingham has been working across political parties to decide the terms of reference for the review.
“The parliament of Australia should set the standard for the nation,” he told reporters in Adelaide on Friday.
Ms Jenkins said first-hand experiences would be critical to building a safer, more equal workplace.
“We recognise the significant public interest in this issue and the need to ensure matters will be treated with sensitivity, confidentiality, and be trauma-informed,” she said.
“I urge every staff member to share their experiences with us via a written submission or interview.”
Ms Jenkins will receive scope to hear confidentially from former and serving staff and politicians on how to make cultural changes to prevent assault, harassment and bullying.
“It is so important to get this work done and to get it done properly,” Senator Birmingham said.
“It’s important for the victims of bullying, sexual harassment and sexual assault.”
The commissioner, who contributed to the terms of the inquiry, is due to hand down her final report in November after making interim findings public in July.
Senator Birmingham said the events of the past few weeks made him concerned good people would be deterred from entering politics unless changes were made.
“If we can set that example and be an exemplar for the nation, then hopefully that can give people the confidence to step forward and to work in our parliament,” he said.
Ms Higgins has reinstated her formal police complaint and believes parliament should be the safest building in Australia.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual assault, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au.
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