Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation

Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation's behaviour at Rigoni's restaurant.

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (14:36): Under standing order 107, I direct a question to the
Hon. Ms Gago regarding her matter of interest in this place on 19 October regarding sexism and
rape culture. Given the member's comments, has the honourable member raised concerns with her
colleague the Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation regarding his appalling
behaviour and language used at Rigoni's restaurant on 17 November?

The Hon. G.E. GAGO (14:37): I thank the honourable member for her question. Indeed, the
Hon. Ian Hunter has apologised for his overzealous language—
Members interjecting:
The Hon. G.E. GAGO: —overzealous and inappropriate language. He has apologised. He
has acknowledged and recognised that it was inappropriate language, which he has apologised for,
and I think it was sound of him to do that.
Members interjecting:
The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (14:37): Supplementary: does the honourable member find that
language offensive, and has she raised concerns with her colleague?
The Hon. G.E. GAGO (14:37): I've answered that question. I have always said in this place
that there is no place for inappropriate language of any form, directed at either male or female. I have
always indicated in this place that there is no place for inappropriate language. The Hon. Ian Hunter
has acknowledged that his language on this particular occasion was inappropriate. He has
apologised to the appropriate people involved, and I admire him for that.
Members interjecting:
The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (14:38): Further supplementary question: can we expect the
honourable member to be doing a matter of interest on this, or not, given that he is from the left of
the political spectrum, rather than someone from another political party?
Members interjecting:
The PRESIDENT: The Hon. Ms Gago.
Members interjecting:
The PRESIDENT: Order! The member is on her feet.
The Hon. G.E. GAGO (14:38): I am, as always, happy to take questions in this place and
answer them in full. I will continue to be a strong advocate and feminist, as the records show over
many, many years, and I will continue to highlight where there is inappropriate behaviour or language
and continue to acknowledge those that do the right thing and support women and equality.