Georgie Purcell Reveals Harassment in Parliament
Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell has come forward with her personal experiences of sexual harassment in Victoria’s state parliament, sharing moments that are both shocking and deeply concerning. Speaking in parliament during a debate on new laws aimed at restricting non-disclosure agreements in cases of workplace sexual harassment, Purcell revealed that she had been subjected to harassment not only as a parliamentary staffer but also after being elected as a member of the upper house.
Purcell, who entered parliament in 2022, said she first encountered harassment at just 26 years old during her early months as a staffer. She recounted an incident where a man entered her office and, after she bent down to retrieve something from the fridge, made a threatening and inappropriate remark. She described this as just one example in a long string of such encounters while working within the parliamentary environment.
Also Read:Despite believing that becoming a member of parliament might offer her some protection, Purcell said the harassment continued even after her election. She detailed the persistent digital harassment she faced, including late-night messages, unwanted phone calls, and constant digital contact, which left her feeling unsafe and scrutinized. When she reported the harassment, she said the response was often dismissive, and she was subjected to rumors and slut-shaming from colleagues. Questions like “What did she expect?” and comments on her appearance or past experiences reflected a culture where victims were blamed rather than supported.
Purcell’s speech came as parliament debated a bill designed to limit the use of non-disclosure agreements in cases of sexual harassment. The proposed legislation seeks to prevent these agreements from silencing victims and allows employees to end them with proper notice if imposed. Purcell emphasized the importance of creating spaces where survivors can speak out without stigma, shame, or judgment. She said the legislation is a crucial first step in making workplaces safer and more accountable, particularly for young women starting their professional careers.
While she did not disclose all details of her formal complaints or their outcomes, Purcell’s testimony highlighted the broader issue of harassment in professional environments, including political institutions. She pointed out that harassment is not confined to office hours or physical spaces but can extend into digital communication and after-hours interactions, underscoring the pervasive nature of the problem.
By sharing her story, Purcell joins a growing number of female parliamentarians speaking openly about harassment, advocating for change, and pushing for legislation that protects victims rather than silences them. Her words serve as a stark reminder that sexual harassment can occur in even the highest echelons of professional life and that systemic change is essential to create safer, more respectful workplaces.
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