A tribunal has been hearing a case involving NSW independent MP Alex Greenwich and former federal Labor leader Mark Latham, with Greenwich accusing Latham of harassment and vilification due to a sexually explicit tweet he posted. The tweet, which has been previously ruled defamatory by the Federal Court, portrayed Greenwich in a derogatory manner, essentially branding him as a “disgusting sexual act” and a danger to children. Greenwich described Latham’s actions as indicative of an “abusive obsession” that has subjected him to ongoing abuse and humiliation, severely impacting his professional and personal life.
In his testimony to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal, Greenwich expressed the profound dehumanisation he has felt as a result of Latham’s comments, emphasising that this was the most fundamental attack he had experienced in his political career, particularly regarding his sexuality. Following the tweet and Latham’s subsequent media appearances, Greenwich’s office became inundated with abuse, which he declares has fundamentally altered the public perception of him.
As an openly gay MP, Greenwich acknowledged that he has faced homophobic abuse in the past but stated that being reduced to a “disgusting sex act” was particularly degrading. Throughout the tribunal proceedings, Latham interjected from the public gallery, leading to a stern reprimand from the tribunal member, Mandy Tibbey.
Greenwich previously won $140,000 in damages in a Federal Court case against Latham regarding the tweet, which emerged shortly after the state election. The acrimony between the two politicians intensified following a violent protest outside a church during a speech by Latham, demonstrating the charged atmosphere surrounding the allegations.
Greenwich’s lawyer, Prue Bindon, reported that Latham’s ongoing tweets have only served to amplify the public ridicule directed at Greenwich. During the proceedings, Latham dismissed concerns from Greenwich’s legal team, mockingly referring to him in a derogatory way concerning his Georgian noble heritage.
Latham, who has faced multiple controversies, including taking unsolicited photographs of women MPs, has so far evaded formal censure from parliament as a motion against him was postponed by opposition parties.
Throughout the tribunal hearings, Greenwich has been live-tweeting updates, asserting the truth of his statements and advocating for the preservation of free speech rights for elected officials. As the case unfolds, it continues to highlight critical issues surrounding workplace harassment, vilification, and the responsibilities of public figures in their communications.