Clare Armstrong: MPs face a very simple task after parliamentary abuse report

Politicians face a simple task following the report into behaviour in parliament, but an incident hours later shows change may not be that easy, writes Clare Armstrong.

The report into parliamentary workplaces by Sex Discrimination Commissioner Kate Jenkins is forensic in its assessment of the rates of abuse and driving forces behind poor behaviour.

It is equally clear about what needs to change, starting with a very simple task for those elected to represent Australia – set the standard.

This is true not just of the culture inside their own workplace, but the tone and nature of discussions of these issues happening every day around Australian dining room tables.

So how will our politicians ­measure up?

Prime Minister Scott Morrison holding a copy of the Jenkins Review into sexual discrimination inside federal parliament. Picture: Adam Taylor

Well, just as Prime Minister Scott Morrison was on Tuesday “appalled” but not “surprised” by Ms Jenkins’ findings, most Australians would ­likely have had the same reaction when, only a few hours later, a ­Coalition senator was accused of growling and making dog noises when independent Senator Jacqui Lambie stood to speak.

Victorian Liberal Senator David Van disputed the description of the interjections he was making, but still later apologised to Ms Lambie for interrupting.

The bullying, harassment and abuse detailed in Ms Jenkins’ report is far beyond poor behaviour on the floor of parliament, but the standards set in these environments do matter.

Few Australians would cast their vote next year purely based on the parliament policies implemented in line with Ms Jenkins’ recommendations.

But many would see the seriousness and sincerity of the response as a stand in for how the government values women in any workplace.

Brittany Higgins prompted women around Australia to reconsider their own treatment in society and demand better.

To respond to this report is not just to act on Ms Higgins’ concerns and those of the thousands who work in parliament, but to demonstrate the safety and respect of women everywhere is important.

Originally published as Clare Armstrong: MPs face a very simple task after parliamentary abuse report