Simon Birmingham (SA, Liberal Party, Minister for Trade) Share this | Hansard source

I echo the words of Senator Payne earlier, in relation to the type of workplace that everyone should be able to expect to work in—whether they're working in this parliament, whether they're working across the Public Service, whether they're working anywhere across the Australian economy or, indeed, whether they're working elsewhere internationally, where Australia advocates for the highest of standards in terms of workplace practices.

It is important that we have high standards and that they are adhered to. It's important that we have processes, in terms of the way in which complaints can be lodged, dealt with and handled. That's why I would reiterate that if a parliamentarian or a member of parliament has any concern about a workplace incident then we do have public processes that are available to all staff in this place, to all members of parliament in this place, on the Department of Finance's website as to how they can access support and the process for reporting a complaint.

Anybody in this building who feels that they have been bullied or harassed or is concerned about a workplace incident should contact the Department of Finance, who will provide advice, support and assistance. They will also treat all complaints confidentially and thoroughly, which will be investigated independently of government. Employees in this building can also access the Employee Assistance Program, which is an independent, confidential, professional counselling service that can provide staff with assistance in dealing with work and life issues. These are all appropriate responses that have been built over time, that are in place right now, and that I would urge all members to make sure their staff and others across this building are aware of.