Education Minister Alan Tudge will stand aside pending an investigation into allegations made by former staffer Rachelle Miller about their relationship.
Ms Miller, a former media adviser to Mr Tudge, today alleged the affair they had was emotionally and, on one occasion, physically abusive.
Ms Miller came forward a year ago, revealing she’d been involved in a consensual relationship with her former boss.
Today, she returned to Parliament House, accusing Mr Tudge of being “abusive,” an allegation he strongly denies.
Addressing Question Time today, Prime Minister Scott Morrison described the allegations as “deeply concerning” and “deeply distressing”.
“I have discussed Ms Miller’s statement with Mr Tudge, who refuted the allegations made,” Mr Morrison said.
“Given the seriousness of the claims made by Ms Miller, it’s important these matters be resolved fairly and expeditiously.
“To this end, the minister has agreed to my request to stand aside while these issues are addressed by my department, through an independent and fair process, to ensure that the matters that have been raised can be properly assessed.”
Mr Tudge has issued a statement saying he “completely and utterly rejected” his former adviser’s version of events.
“Ms Miller and I had a consensual affair in 2017, as both of us have publicly acknowledged. This is something I deeply regret,” Mr Tudge said.
Two days ago, the Sex Discrimination Commissioner released a report on the workplace culture at Parliament House, finding sexual harassment and bullying is rife and making 28 recommendations for reform.
“This is not about revenge… it’s about ensuring that no one else goes through this in this workplace,” Ms Miller said.
“It’s about changing a system that allowed this to happen.” ABC, 9News