Government accused of double-standards on rape

The State Opposition has accused the Bligh government of paying hush money to a woman raped in state care.

Shadow Minister for Women Fiona Simpson said the Labor government had then undermined justice by gagging the woman from speaking.

“The government had made a controversial $140,000 payment to a woman, who was raped as a child, while in the care of the government.

“Minister for Women Karen Struthers, who was in charge when the payment was made, has refused to say whether the evidence in the compensation case had been subject to a criminal investigation,” MsSimpson said.

“If it has, why has her department gagged the victim?

“Women’s Minister Karen Struthers who has been running a political agenda on the issue of rape, must stop the government cover-up on this issue.

“On another issue, the minister is also guilty of double standards in relation to comments by the former Labor Attorney-General Kerry Shine who said ‘some rapes can be of minor effect on the victim’.

“While Mr Shines’ comments sparked public outrage especially from victims of sexual crime support groups – Ms Struthers has repeatedly refused to publicly criticise her Labor colleague.

“While Labor is involved in cover-ups - LNP MPs and candidates are committed to working to minimise violence against women.

“The CanDo LNP team has also dedicated funding to Women’s Legal Service - a key essential community service that was facing a funding crisis because of Bligh government underfunding.

“The LNP has promised an additional $250,000 per year for three years to reactivate closed down services, including a rural help line.

“The Women’s Legal Service thanked the LNP for ‘understanding the importance of keeping Queensland women and children safe from harm and for committing to funding that will help us turn around this crisis’.

“Unlike Labor which is all words and no action, the LNP is offering tangible, practical support for vulnerable women,” Ms Simpson said.

“The LNP will revitalise key frontline services – and restore accountability in government.”