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Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce has denied accusations he abused a female staff member inside Parliament House ahead of an investigation into the incident.
Joyce allegedly launched a verbal tirade against a Nationals staffer on Wednesday while he attempted to log a leave request to attend a funeral on Thursday.
Shortly before Question Time, it is understood that the former deputy prime minister went into MP Michelle Landry’s office to fill out the necessary paperwork.
The New England MP allegedly raised his voice at a female Nationals staffer, cursing and entering her physical space, according to a Sky News report.
Joyce, who recently quit the National Party but intends to serve out his term, contests the allegations.
In a recent statement to SBS News, the individual in question firmly rejected the accusations, stating, “I deny the allegations and respect the PWSS process which is now underway.”
The incident has been formally lodged with the Parliamentary Workplace Support Service (PWSS).
Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie said it was “inappropriate” for her to comment on the alleged incident.
“There’s been a lot of changes in my time here,” she said.
“I started in 2011, and it is an incredibly different workplace than when I arrived, and so PWSS has been stood up for those reasons.”
The Parliamentary Workplace Support Service (PWSS) holds all Members of Parliament and senators to high standards, expecting them to interact with staff in a manner that upholds dignity, courtesy, fairness, and respect.
Breaches of conduct are referred to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission (IPSC), an arm of the PWSS, which has the power to impose sanctions against parliamentarians.
These include a written reprimand, a decision to undertake training or a behaviour agreement with the IPSC.
If a parliamentarian is found to have significantly violated this code of conduct, they may face suspension for a specific duration or incur a financial penalty, which could involve a reduction in their salary.
Joyce’s future with the Nationals uncertain
Earlier this month, Joyce said he was leaving the Nationals, announcing he would not stand for his lower house seat at the next election.
Joyce, who was demoted from the party’s front bench by leader David Littleproud earlier this year, cited fractured relationships with party leadership.
There is speculation that he may join One Nation on a Senate ticket, an option he has not ruled out.
While he remains part of the National Party, he refuses to attend party room briefings.
