Brittany Lauga, Queensland Labor MP has claimed that she was drugged and sexually assaulted in Yeppoon, central Queensland, over the weekend. Lauga revealed in a social media post that she reached out to the police during the early hours of April 28.
“Tests at the hospital confirmed the presence of drugs in my body which I did not take. This substance impacted me significantly,” Brittany Lauga in an Instagram post.
Brittany also mentioned that over the week, she had been approached by numerous other women from the same town who shared similar experiences. “This could have happened to anyone and tragically, it does happen to many of us,” the Australian MP 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,” Brittany Lauga added.
According to The Guardian, a circulating online video purportedly depicts the alleged assault of Brittany, filmed from across the street. Lauga became aware of its existence shortly after reporting the assault to the police.
The Queensland Police Service has verified that it is probing a sexual assault complaint linked to an incident in Yeppoon. Queensland Premier Steven Miles affirmed that the government is offering support to Brittany Lauga in every possible manner, as reported by ABC.
“No one should have to go through what Brittany is going through,” Steven Miles was quoted as saying.
“My sole focus is on Brittany and her wellbeing. I have told Brittany Lauga that we are here to support her, whatever she needs,” he added.
Queensland housing minister Meaghan Scanlon said the statement made for “difficult reading”. “Those are shocking allegations … I understand that Brittany is going to take a short time to look after herself and we absolutely support her to do that,” she said.
Brittany Lauga, aged 37, is a town planner by trade and has served in parliament for nearly ten years, initially winning the seat of Keppel in 2015. As per The Guardian, Lauga currently holds the position of assistant minister for health and regional health infrastructure.