Thread: I was an associate two years after #DysonHeydon left the HCA. I remember being warned of his behaviour when retired justices returned for events – warnings passed on by successive cohorts of female associates trying to protect themselves and each other. #MeToo #auslaw

I experienced sexual harassment before I started at the Court, in my first job as a solicitor. I complained. It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I was terrified I would lose the job I loved and had always wanted to do.

Unbeknownst to me, another female colleague also complained. The man was fired but later rehired, which I discovered shortly after finishing my associateship at the Court. Even now, years later, it is wrenching.

Make no mistake, these experiences impede and destroy careers. They tell young female lawyers to expect and accept objectionable behaviour, to stay quiet and limit the scope of our ambitions.

They tear away at confidence and trust, creating barriers to success that are often internal and silent.

I’m grateful for the courage of the women who came forward in this case. It’s telling for our profession that it took so long for them to be heard.