Former federal MP Lucy Wicks has criticised Sydney radio station 2GB for naming her as the Liberal figure behind a formal complaint against a state MP that included allegations of harassment through “demeaning, degrading, and abusive texts”.
Wicks released a statement on her social media on Monday asking for privacy, saying she had been left “distressed” after learning the host of the station’s breakfast program, Ben Fordham, had named her as the person behind the complaint against Taylor Martin made last week.
“My complaint to the Liberal party was in relation to serious concerns including behaviour in the workplace, in the party and in political interactions,” the former Robertson MP said.
She said he had been distressed disclosing “even a small portion of these details” after attempting to keep the process private.
“I sought to create a confidential process that would enable natural justice and provide me with safety as I navigate this process,” she said.
Martin responded to the situation on Monday, saying he was “confident that the truth will come out”, through an investigation launched by the Liberal party.
He has apologised for what he called “heated words” during an “ugly and undignified” breakup when asked about the claims.
“I was young and inexperienced and I found myself involved in a situation that was way beyond me,” he said on Sunday.
“There were heated words during my attempts to go separate ways that I sincerely regret. It was an ugly and undignified parting of ways.”
Martin said he welcomed the process and intended to fully cooperate.
Martin has been a member of the NSW upper house since 2017 and will not sit in the party room while the claims are probed.
The opposition leader, Mark Speakman, said he had “spoken with the MP in question and he has told me he welcomes the process”.
The claims are now being interrogated by an SC appointed by the Liberal party to conduct an “independent investigation”.
“At all times, the party has respected the agency and wishes of the person who has come forward, to treat the matter confidentially,” a party spokesperson said.
“Public commentary on this investigation could deny procedural fairness to those involved in this process. The party will not be making any further comment while the independent investigation is taking place.”
2GB has declined to comment.
