Outgoing Member for Gilmore Ann Sudmalis has slammed Illawarra MP Gareth Ward, accusing him of bullying "strong women" and subsequently pushing her out of politics.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Addressing the House of Representatives Monday evening, the Federal Liberal MP Ms Sudmalis added weight to her earlier statement announcing why she would not be contesting the next election.
In her speech, Ms Sudmalis said the behaviour of the Parliamentary Secretary of the Illawarra has affected her mental health and her decision had nothing to do with her "friend" Scott Morrison taking over the leadership of the country.
"I would ask here that those who feel inspired to be spiteful, angry, insulting and gutless because they’re using they’re keyboards - have a think before pressing the send button," she said.
"Politics is a place for great resilience, the actions of others can impact on your mental health.
“Bullying, betrayal and backstabbing have been the hallmarks of one of my state Liberal colleagues Gareth Ward over the past six-and-a-half years."
Ms Sudmalis went on to state she has been "misrepresented" in all manner of media since 2012 and was constantly undermined by the NSW state division by people who were "revenge motivated".
"This is not the first time Gareth has flexed his vengeance on strong Liberal women. He doesn't just get even, he annihilates anyone who opposes him," she said.
It comes as Shadow Minister for the Illawarra Ryan Park has called on Mr Ward to apologise.
“Gareth Ward should hang his head in shame today for the role he has played in ensuring another female Liberal MP is quitting Parliament,” Mr Park said.