Gillard supporters speak out - The Drum (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

Gillard supporters speak out - The Drum (Australian Broadcasting Corporation)

The statement also sharply criticises Opposition Leader Tony Abbott, deposed and now restored prime minister Kevin Rudd, and a "sexist and chauvinist" public discourse that showed "gross disrespect for the office of Prime Minister and gross disrespect for her as a person".

With men now back in their perceived 'rightful place' as political leaders of both the government and Opposition there will be little gendered attack in political circles. But the seams of aggressive contempt and sexist abuse that lay beneath everyday life and which surfaced with Julia Gillard's elevation as Prime Minister, have not gone away.