Jo Tarnawsky Sues Federal Government Over Bullying Claims

Jo Tarnawsky, chief of staff to Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, is suing the federal government, Marles, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's chief of staff, Tim Gartrell, claiming she was forced out of her position after raising a bullying complaint against her colleagues. Tarnawsky alleges that after filing her complaint on April 29, she was effectively 'frozen out' of her job, barred from her office, and placed on miscellaneous leave while an acting chief of staff took her place. Despite her efforts to seek accountability and an investigation into her claims, she stated that no government officials have reached out to check on her wellbeing. Marles has stated he believes he upheld the ministerial code of conduct and has not been accused of bullying her directly. The legal action is based on claims of 'adverse action' under the Fair Work Act, as Tarnawsky argues her treatment violates workplace justice principles. This case unfolds amid broader discussions on workplace conduct and reforms within the government.