Pauline Hanson (Queensland, Pauline Hanson's One Nation Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

I rise tonight to share my disappointment at another case of serious sexual harassment by a current senator that is currently under investigation—a married senator. This same senator has also forced the Australian taxpayer to pay out other previous unfair dismissal cases during his term. Each of those people has been gagged from speaking publicly about their experience, and I respect the decision they have made to accept those terms and remain silent. But what is disappointing is that this parliament has allowed the horrible treatment of staff to continue without this senator being forced to go through some form of training to prevent the poor treatment of his employees. I'm not talking about one or two staff: I'm talking about more than six in this term of parliament. And I blame this parliament for allowing the gag orders to leave this vulnerable woman exposed to the treatment she's gone through. This gutless wonder we call senator should tonight hang his head in shame.

I expect the behaviour of all elected members to be honourable. What senators in this place need to understand is that our staff are no different to us. Just because you wear the red pin doesn't give you permission to place your unwanted hands or lips on your staff.