Miller reveals settlement
The details of a $650,000 settlement with the Commonwealth have been revealed after allegations of abuse by former government minister Alan Tudge.
Former government staffer Rachelle Miller claims she was subject to bullying, harassment and discrimination while working for Mr Tudge and for former government minister Michaelia Cash.
Documents released to reporters this week, the Commonwealth appears to have paid Ms Miller $300,000 for hurt, distress, humiliation, dislocation of life, loss of professional standing and personal dignity, $28,000 as reimbursement for past medical and like expenses, and another $62,000 for future medical expenses, as well as $110,000 in respect of loss of past and future earning capacity, as well as another $150,000 for Ms Miller's legal costs.
Both Mr Tudge and Senator Cash were named in the settlement, which notes the $650,000 payment was not an admission of liability nor of fault by the Commonwealth.
Senator Cash's office has released a statement rejecting Ms Miller's allegations.
“Senator Cash strenuously rejects claims of any adverse treatment of Ms Miller and strongly disputes Ms Miller’s version of events. At the time of her employment, between late 2017 and mid-2018, Senator Cash and her office understood Ms Miller’s personal circumstances, which is why support, leave and flexible work arrangements were offered to her,” her spokesperson said.
“The settlement is a matter for the Department of Finance.”
Mr Tudge has previously denied the allegations, saying he “completely and utterly rejects Ms Miller's version of events”.