{
  "id": 7978725,
  "title": "Politician apologises for yelling, swearing in staff meeting",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/17/politician-apologises-for-yelling-swearing-in-staff-meeting",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-17T07:52:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ABC News AU",
    "slug": "abc-news-au",
    "url": "https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-09-17/fiona-carrick-apologises-legislative-assembly-conduct-breach/107165540"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Independent MLA Fiona Carrick has apologized for a recent outburst during a staff meeting that violated the Legislative Assembly's code of conduct. Following an investigation, a committee found that Carrick's actions, which included yelling, swearing, slamming the table, and threatening not to renew an employment contract in front of others, indicated a pattern of problematic behavior. Carrick acknowledged her failure to meet the standards expected of her and expressed regret for her conduct. The incident arose from underlying tensions in her office, primarily stemming from interpersonal conflicts between two staff members. Despite being advised to investigate the allegations formally, Carrick opted for a workplace communication workshop, which did not resolve the issues. She later engaged an independent therapist to address the problems. Carrick stated that her current team is working collaboratively and effectively, and that this experience has reinforced her commitment to maintaining a respectful, collegiate, and safe workplace.",
  "summary": "The commissioner investigating Fiona Carrick's conduct said she had made \"well-meaning\" but unsuccessful attempts to bring tension down in her office.",
  "key_points": [
    "Independent MLA Fiona Carrick apologizes for staff meeting outburst",
    "Carrick's actions included yelling, swearing, table slamming, contract threat",
    "Incident due to office tensions, not resolved by communication workshop"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}