www.sbs.com.au /news/article/scott-morrison-apologises-to-brittany-higgins-as-parliament-acknowledges-past-bullying-and-sexual-assault/41szr1g42

Scott Morrison apologises to Brittany Higgins as parliament acknowledges past bullying and sexual assault

Tom Stayner4-6 minutes

Federal parliament has delivered a formal acknowledgement of past bullying, harassment and sexual assault to recognise those who have faced harm within Commonwealth workplaces.

The recognition in both houses responds to the first recommendation of the workplace review conducted by Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins.

Former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins, whose allegation of rape in a ministerial office in 2019 led to the inquiry being called, was among a small group in attendance to witness the statement.

Scott Morrison and Anthony Albanese apologise to Brittany Higgins

House of Representatives Speaker Andrew Wallace delivered the acknowledgement, saying the parliament had failed to serve as a model workplace for the nation.

"We acknowledge the unacceptable history of workplace bullying, sexual harassment and sexual assault in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces," he said.

"This issue is of the greatest importance and the responsibility of all people who work in this place."

Prime Minister Scott Morrison then addressed parliament, recognising Ms Higgins's attendance, saying her "courage is the reason we are all here today".

He also delivered an apology directly to Ms Higgins, as well as others who had faced experiences of bullying, sexual harassment and assault.

"I am sorry. We are sorry. I am sorry to Ms Higgins for the terrible things that took place here," he said.