Queensland MP Brittany Lauga Alleges Sexual Assault, Prompting Police Probe

Queensland Labor MP Brittany Lauga has alleged that she was drugged andclaims, sexuallyassaulted in Yeppoon, Queensland on April 28, prompting a police investigation and support from Premier Steven Miles. Lauga, 37, who serves as the Assistant Minister for Health and holds the portfolio of regional health infrastructure, took to social media to share her experience.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the alarming rates of violence against women in Australia, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to address and prevent such crimes. It also underscores the importance of supporting victims of sexual assault and ensuring that they receive the necessary resources and care.

In a statement, Lauga revealed, "In the early hours of Sunday morning I went to the Yeppoon police station and Yeppoon Hospital, after being drugged and silence, claim, sexually, video, incident, emerged assaulted. Tests at the hospital confirmed the presence of drugs in my body which I did not take. This substance impacted me significantly. A police investigation is underway." She also claimed that other women may have been similarly attacked in Yeppoon on the same night, stating, "This could have happened to anyone and tragically, it does happen to many of us... I have had multiple women contact me who have experienced the same thing in our town. It's not ok. We should be able to enjoy socialising in our town without the risk of being drugged or assaulted."

Premier Steven Miles expressed support for Lauga, emphasizing, "No one should have to go through what Brittany is going through... My sole focus is on Brittany and her wellbeing. I've told Brittany that we're here to support her, whatever she needs." minister, fellow, assault, allegations Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon also described the allegations as "shocking" and "horrifying", reaffirming the government's commitment to protecting women and stopping violence through recent legislative reforms and increased funding for domestic and family violence services.

A grainy Snapchat video of the alleged incident emerged online, which Lauga says she learned of after making a police complaint and undergoing a four-hour interview. "I watched the video. It was just an awful, awful thing to watch. You know, the following days have just been a living nightmare," Lauga stated. She expressed her terror for the safety of women in the community, saying, "It's more than just a video... It's the worst week of my life."

The allegations come at a time when the nation is grappling with the high rates of violence against women. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, more than one in five (22%) women have experienced sexual violence since the age of 15. Lauga has taken mental health leave in the wake of the incident and has asked for privacy and time to "physically and emotionally heal". She encouraged anyone with information to contact the police. Support is available from the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732) and other resources.

The Queensland Police Service has confirmed an active investigation into the sexual assault complaint. Lauga remains on mental health leave, which is likely to extend into next week. No charges have been laid at this time. The MP has expressed concern about how the video made its way so quickly to multiple media outlets and has asked them to destroy it, though not all have complied.

Key Takeaways

• Queensland Labor MP Brittany Lauga alleges she was drugged and sexually assaulted in Yeppoon.
• Lauga took to social media to share her experience, sparking a police investigation.
• Premier Steven Miles and Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon express support for Lauga.
• A grainy Snapchat video of the alleged incident emerged online, causing Lauga distress.
• Lauga takes mental health leave, urging anyone with information to contact the police.