Milton Dick (Speaker) Share this | Hansard source

I thank the honourable member for Indi for her question. The incident was indeed serious, and one which should never have occurred. I once again assure the House I'm committed to ensuring all staff who work in this building are safe at work. Today I requested the Department of the House of Representatives and the Department of Parliamentary Services to conduct an urgent risk assessment in relation to the work of parliamentary staff in the chamber, to ensure that all staff are guaranteed of their safety in the workplace.

In addition, today I'll be writing to all members, reminding them of their obligation to treat this chamber and parliamentary staff with respect. This is not only an expectation of me but what I believe is an expectation of all Australians.

This morning I also met with Michelle Wicks, the interim head of the Parliamentary Workplace Support Service, and Ms Kate Jenkins, the author of the Set the standard report and the outgoing Sex Discrimination Commissioner, to discuss the incident.

I take this opportunity to remind members and staff again that the PWWS is available at all hours to provide support to anyone affected by the incident, and, indeed, any other matters that arise where assistance may be needed.

I call the Leader of the Opposition.

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