UPDATE: Northern Victoria MP Georgie Purcell has delivered a powerful testimony about her experiences with sexual harassment in parliament, just as the Restricting Non-disclosure Agreements (Sexual Harassment at Work) Bill 2025 is being debated in state parliament. During her address on November 20, 2025, Purcell revealed harrowing accounts from her working life, underscoring the urgent need for legislative change.
In an emotional statement, Purcell shared her traumatic past, stating, “When I moved on to working in a pub at 18, I dreaded clearing the glasses during happy hour, knowing I would be groped and receive demeaning comments.” She recounted a particularly frightening incident when a customer threatened her after she rejected his advances. “In that workplace, I was powerless,” she added.
Purcell also recounted incidents of harassment she faced as a staffer in parliament, including a chilling remark made by a colleague in her office: “If you do that again, I won’t be responsible for what happens next.” She expressed her shock at experiencing such treatment in what she believed would be a safe environment.
WHY THIS MATTERS RIGHT NOW: Purcell’s revelations come at a critical time as parliament considers reforms to combat the misuse of non-disclosure agreements that silence victims of sexual harassment. She highlighted the challenges she faced after reporting harassment, stating, “I know the slut shaming far too well,” referring to the scrutiny and judgment cast upon her by colleagues following her complaints.
The ongoing culture of harassment and victim-blaming in parliament reflects a troubling reality for women in political spaces. “Members of this place are not beyond it, and we need to reflect on that as we move forward,” Purcell urged, emphasizing the necessity of the proposed legislation.
The Restricting Non-disclosure Agreements bill aims to protect victims, allowing them to speak out without fearing legal repercussions. It seeks to dismantle a culture that has historically silenced victims, paving the way for a safer workplace for all.
As the debate unfolds, Purcell’s courageous stance raises critical questions about accountability and the treatment of women in positions of power. With the support of advocacy groups and the public, there is hope for substantial change in addressing sexual harassment in parliamentary settings.
If you or someone you know has been affected by sexual harassment, support is available. Call 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for confidential help.
Stay tuned for further updates as this important legislation progresses. Share this urgent message to spread awareness and advocate for change in the workplace.
