Queensland MP Brittany Lauga Alleges Drugging and Sexual Assault

Queensland MP Brittany Lauga has reported being drugged and sexually assaulted, leading to a police investigation. The 37-year-old assistant minister for health stated that the incident occurred during an evening out in her constituency of Yeppoon.

Test Results Confirm Drugging

Ms. Lauga sought medical attention on April 28, following the assault. Tests conducted at the hospital confirmed the presence of drugs in her body that she had not willingly taken. She also mentioned that the substance had significantly affected her and indicated that other women had reached out to her with similar concerns.

This incident comes amid a recent surge in gender-based violence in Australia. Reports state that a woman has been killed on average every four days in the country this year. Furthermore, the country was shocked by an incident in April where Joel Cuachi, in a Sydney shopping centre, stabbed six people to death, five of whom were women.

Pledge to Combat Misogyny and Gender Violence

In response to these concerning developments, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has labeled domestic violence a "national crisis" and vowed to crack down on misogynistic online content. He emphasized the need for cultural and attitudinal changes, along with reforms in the legal system, to address the systemic issue of gender violence.

Support and Action from Authorities

Queensland's Premier, Steven Miles, expressed the government's support for Ms. Lauga, denouncing the ordeal she has endured. Additionally, the Queensland Police Service has confirmed its investigation into the sexual assault complaint.