Senator Fatima Payman Exposes Harassment in Australian Parliament: Complaint Filed Against Drunk Male Colleague

In a disturbing revelation, Senator Fatima Payman, Australia’s first hijab-wearing federal lawmaker, has filed a formal complaint against a senior male colleague for making inappropriate comments during a parliamentary function.

Speaking to ABC, Payman said the unnamed colleague — who appeared intoxicated — told her, “Let’s get some wine into you and see you dance on the table.” The 30-year-old Muslim senator, known for her principled stance against alcohol consumption due to her faith, immediately distanced herself from the comment and took formal action.

The incident has been referred to a parliamentary watchdog, though the identity of the male lawmaker and the timing of the event remain undisclosed.

Payman, an Afghan-born independent senator, has been vocal about Islamic values and women’s dignity in public life. Her complaint comes amid heightened scrutiny over workplace misconduct in Canberra, especially following the 2021 Brittany Higgins case that triggered public outrage and prompted institutional reviews.

As Canberra once again faces questions about its culture, Payman’s bold step may amplify calls for stronger mechanisms to protect lawmakers, particularly women and minorities.