The Parliamentary Leadership Taskforce presents the second annual report on the implementation of recommendations from the Sex Discrimination Commissioner’s Set the Standard: Report on the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces.
We would like to extend our gratitude to Ms Kerri Hartland, who served as the independent Chair of the Taskforce until January 2023. We thank Kerri for her leadership over the first 12 months of the Taskforce, which culminated in the Taskforce’s first Annual Report on progress implementing the 28 recommendations from the Set the Standard report.
The Taskforce welcomed Dr Vivienne Thom AM as the new independent Chair in February 2023 and have continued to meet regularly throughout 2023 to oversee the implementation of the Set the Standard reforms.
Over the past 12 months, many important foundations have been formed that will continue to underpin ongoing transformation within our workplaces. Among our key priorities has been the establishment of the statutory Parliamentary Workplace Support Service, further enhancing this already valuable service and recognising the need for a robust system that provides comprehensive support to people working in Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces.
We thank everyone who has actively participated in the consultation processes, offering invaluable insights and perspectives to shape these reforms. Your engagement has been instrumental in ensuring that the changes implemented are fit for purpose and aligned with the desired outcomes.
The Taskforce remains committed to building a workplace that reflects the nation’s values and ensures the safety and wellbeing of everyone who works in and supports the Parliament of Australia. The Taskforce will continue to oversee the establishment of an independent body to enforce standards of behaviour and associated reforms.
We urge everyone to embrace and embed an enduring culture of safety, respect, inclusivity, accountability, and wellbeing within all Commonwealth parliamentary workplaces. Only through sustained commitment and vigilance can we ensure that our workplaces remain spaces where every individual feels valued, protected, and empowered.
The Taskforce’s second annual report can be found here. A summary of progress from the Chair of the Taskforce can also be found here.
Further detail on the progress of the recommendations can be found in a refreshed Implementation Tracker – 7 February 2024.