Bullying probe in Territory opposition leader’s office
By LLOYD JONES
Allegations of bullying and culturally unsafe practices are being investigated in the office of the Northern Territory opposition leader, who says she is taking the claims seriously and addressing the issues raised.
Selena Uibo, leader of the five-member Labor opposition in the Territory, has confirmed a parliamentary investigation is underway following “challenges around some of the internal workings of my office”.
“My office and I work in a highly charged political environment that is unique and unlike most workplaces,” she said in a brief statement on Tuesday.
“When concerns are raised within my office, I take them seriously.”
Ensuring appropriate processes were followed, supporting the wellbeing of those involved and identifying improvements to strengthen workplace culture, were her priorities, she said.
NT opposition leader Selena Uibo has confirmed a parliamentary investigation is underway.
The opposition leader has told reporters she had addressed some of the issues raised “but there is still some work to be done in that space”.
Cultural safety concerns
Ms Uibo has not provided details of the bullying claims, culturally unsafe practices or the staff involved.
The NT News has reported the cultural safety concerns relate to Ms Uibo’s treatment of Indigenous staff, with complaints surrounding a senior member of her team and her own handling of the reports.
Earlier this year independent MP Justine Davis called for the establishment of a Parliamentary Code of Behaviour, accusing the Country Liberal Party government of bullying, harassment and personal attacks.
Ed Smelt has been installed as NT deputy opposition leader. (Lloyd Jones/AAP PHOTOS)
In a shock announcement on Friday, Ms Uibo said newly elected Nightcliff MP Ed Smelt had been elected the party’s deputy leader, replacing Daly MP Dheran Young.
Mr Young said he was deeply disappointed by the decision and he was stepping down from his shadow portfolios.
Mr Smelt is Labor’s only city MP, with Ms Uibo saying that would boost confidence in Labor in the urban seats of Darwin.
