The Labor government has terminated the employment of Rhys Muldoon, a former television presenter, following the emergence of deeply offensive tweets he authored. Muldoon, 60, had been serving as an advisor to first-term Labor Senator Richard Dowling since July.
Senator Dowling confirmed Muldoon's dismissal on Tuesday, stating, "After being alerted to abhorrent tweets from my staffer, I've decided to not continue with his casual contract." He added, "Everyone in public life has a responsibility to do better when it comes to political discourse. The words used were unacceptable at any time."
Among the unearthed messages, Muldoon used the N-word in a tweet on March 26, 2014, directed at his former co-star Tim Campbell. The exchange appeared to stem from Campbell labeling Muldoon a "homophobe" in another tweet. In the offensive post, Muldoon wrote, "I am protected under 28a you n**er jew fg dog smoking liberal voter. X."
Muldoon also targeted Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, calling her a "quisling" on October 15, 2023, during the debate surrounding the Voice to Parliament referendum. He criticized Price for supporting the "No" vote, writing, "Quisling questions any fact that questions her lies." The term "quisling" refers to a traitor who collaborates with an occupying enemy force.
Senator Price responded to the remarks, stating, "Mr Muldoon's remarks are repulsive. They have no place in modern Australia, and Mr Muldoon has no place working for the Australian Government."
Muldoon's past work includes a collaboration on a children's book with former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and an essay for The Monthly that was recognized as "an essay of the year."
Senator Dowling had previously described Muldoon as someone who "understands politics instinctively, writes brilliantly, thinks differently to me and isn't afraid to say it," which was why he wanted him on his team.