The former commissioner for First Nations children in the ACT has alleged she was the victim of sexual assault and harassment while serving in her role.
Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts had held the position since February 2024, but quit the role at the end of last year, just two years into a five-year term, saying today it was for her ” physical and psychological safety.”
She has claimed that she suffered from a sexual assault at the hands of an unnamed public servant in Canberra, as well as harassment.
Vanessa Turnbull-Roberts has made allegations of sexual harassment and sexual assault during her time in Canberra. (Dominic Lorrimer)
“During my term I was subjected to sexual harassment and sexual assault in Canberra by a public servant, making it necessary to prioritise my safety. This conduct has no place in any workplace,” she alleged.
Turnbull-Roberts did not reveal any specific allegations of abuse. She also claimed the alleged abuse had a significant impact on her health, and rebuffed rumours surrounding her departure.
Turnbull-Roberts claimed initial reports on her departure were incorrect. (Instagram/@nessaturnbullroberts)
“This experience has impacted me in ways too shattering for language to fully hold,” she said.
Her departure from the role was initially announced in the ACT parliament earlier this month by Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs Suzanne Orr.
A spokesperson for the ACT government said they take physical and psychosocial safety issues seriously.
”No form of harassment or assault is acceptable in the workplace,” they told 9news.com.au.
“The ACT Public Service has formal processes for responding to any allegation of misconduct, including sexual assault and we remain committed to providing a safe and inclusive workplace for all staff.”
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