Key Points
- Queensland Labor MP Brittany Lauga says she was drugged and sexually assaulted on a night out.
- The alleged incident has sparked a police investigation.
This article contains references to sexual assault.
Queensland Labor MP Brittany Lauga says she was drugged and sexually assaulted on a night out, with police confirming they are aware of claims of similar incidents.
The assistant health minister posted on social media that she went to the police and the hospital on 28 April after she was allegedly drugged and assaulted on a night out in her electorate of Yeppoon, a town in central Queensland.
"Tests at the hospital confirmed the presence of drugs in my body which I did not take. This substance impacted me significantly," she said in a statement.
Lauga was reportedly contacted by other women who alleged they were also drugged on Saturday evening.
"This could have happened to anyone and tragically, it does happen to many of us," she said.
"It's not ok. We should be able to enjoy socialising in our town without the risk of being drugged or assaulted."
Queensland Police confirmed officers are investigating a sexual assault complaint regarding an incident in Yeppoon on Sunday.
"Investigations into this matter are ongoing," police said in a statement. The force added officers are "aware of claims of similar incidents" and urged anyone who has experienced something similar to formally report the matter to police.
The Member for Keppel said she was taking time to physically and emotionally heal after the alleged incident but thanked members of the public who reached out to show their support.
"I truly value your thoughtful messages, gestures and kindness."
Premier Steven Miles said Lauga had experienced an incident that nobody should have and extended his support to the MP.
"No one should have to go through what Brittany is going through," he said in a statement.
Premier Steven Miles Premier has extended his support to MP Lauga. Source: AAP / Jono Searle
Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said she and her parliamentary colleagues were shocked by the allegations.
"Reading through that statement is really difficult reading," she told reporters on Saturday.
"Brittany is a colleague. She is a friend. She is a young woman in Queensland parliament."
Cabinet has extended their support to Lauga as she takes time away from parliament to recover from the alleged incident, Scanlon added.
If you or someone you know is impacted by family and domestic violence or sexual assault call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or visit 1800RESPECT.org.au
In an emergency, call 000.
Women from migrant and refugee backgrounds who are experiencing family or domestic violence can contact inTouch, the Multicultural Centre Against Family Violence on 1800 755 988 or visit intouch.org.au
