Australian MP claims she was drugged and sexually assaulted during night out

Queensland Labor Party MP Brittany Lauga alleged she was drugged and sexually assaulted in Yeppoon, a town in central Queensland. She said she contacted police early Sunday morning.

“Tests at the hospital confirmed the presence of drugs in my body that I had not taken. This substance has had a significant impact on me,” Lauga told the news agency Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

The Keppel MP said several other women from the city with similar experiences had contacted her after she shared her ordeal. “This could have happened to anyone, and tragically it happens to many of us. It’s not okay. We should be able to enjoy socializing in our city without the risk of being drugged or attacked,” she said.

“Thank you to everyone who supported me. I really appreciate your thoughtful messages, gestures and kindness. If you have any information that could assist the investigation, please tell the police,” she added.

A separate report from the British newspaper The guard said a video purportedly of the alleged attack on Lauga and filmed from across the street is circulating online. She was made aware of the said video after reporting it to the police.

Queensland Police told the broadcaster they are investigating a sexual assault complaint relating to an incident in Yeppoon. Queensland Premier Steven Miles said the provincial government is supporting Brittany Lauga in every way possible. “No one should have to go through what Brittany is going through. My sole focus is on Brittany and her well-being. I told Brittany that we are here to support her no matter what she needs,” Miles said.

Queensland Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said the MP’s statement was “difficult to read”. “These are shocking allegations… I understand that Brittany needs a little time to take care of herself and we absolutely support her in doing so,” she said.