Queensland Labor MP Brittany Lauga has alleged she was drugged and sexually assaulted in the central Queensland town of Yeppoon last weekend, and claims other women may also have been similarly attacked.
Lauga posted a statement on social media, saying she had contacted police early on the morning of Sunday 28 April.
“In the early hours of Sunday morning I went to the Yeppoon police station and Yeppoon hospital, after being drugged and sexually 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 said in the week since the alleged assault she had been contacted by other women who might also have been drugged in the coastal town of Yeppoon, about 35km north-east of Rockhampton, on the same night.
A video, purported to be of the alleged assault of Lauga filmed from across the street, is circulating online. Lauga was alerted to its existence in the hours after she reported the assault to police.
“This could have happened to anyone and tragically, it does happen to many of us,” Lauga said.
“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.”
Lauga said she would take “time to physically and emotionally heal” and asked for privacy.
“Thank you to everyone who has reached out to me in support. I truly value your thoughtful messages, gestures and kindness.
“If you have any information that may assist the investigation, please tell the police.”
Queensland police confirmed they were investigating an allegation of sexual assault in Yeppoon last Sunday.
“Investigations into this matter are ongoing.”
Queensland’s premier, Steven Miles, said the government was supporting Lauga. “No one should have to go through what Brittany is going through,” he said.
“My sole focus is on Brittany and her wellbeing. I’ve told Brittany that we’re here to support her, whatever she needs.”
A town planner by profession, 37-year-old Lauga has been in parliament nearly a decade, first elected to the seat of Keppel in 2015. She holds the portfolio of assistant minister for health and regional health infrastructure.
• Information and support for anyone affected by rape or sexual abuse issues is available from the following organisations. In Australia, support is available at 1800Respect (1800 737 732). In the UK, Rape Crisis offers support on 0808 500 2222. In the US, Rainn offers support on 800-656-4673. Other international helplines can be found at ibiblio.org/rcip/internl.html
