Jo Tarnawsky, the former chief of staff to Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles, alleges she was forced out of her position after raising complaints about bullying from colleagues.

Tarnawsky claims she has not communicated with Marles for five months and was effectively dismissed via phone after expressing her concerns.

After raising her concerns about undermining behavior from colleagues, Tarnawsky was barred from her office and directed to a temporary position.

Currently on leave and applying for jobs, Tarnawsky has expressed that the treatment she received contradicts the government's public commitment to improving workplace culture.

Education Minister Jason Clare acknowledged that while the culture in Parliament House is improving, further work is still necessary.

Tarnawsky has called on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to ensure a safe workplace for women, emphasizing that no political party is immune from workplace issues.

Michael Bradley, managing partner at Marque Lawyers, stated that Tarnawsky's concerns were legitimate and implied she was forced out of her position.

The Parliamentary Workplace Support Service (PWSS) has provided Tarnawsky with counselling services, but concerns have been raised about potential conflicts of interest.

Marles has stated in parliament that he has complied with the ministerial code of conduct and has been in communication with the prime minister's office regarding the situation.

Tarnawsky claims the bullying originated from within Marles' office, although she has not disclosed specific details.

She expressed a desire to expose the truth about her situation, highlighting the powerful individuals involved who she claims dismiss her concerns.

Tarnawsky asserted that all workers deserve fair treatment and that her rights as an employee were not respected, emphasizing the need for accountability.