A Labor MP has launched an extraordinary tirade against a political opponent, repeatedly slamming a table in parliament during an explosive blow-up.
Julian Hill's temper boiled over while talking about the federal government's robodebt scandal in the little-known Federation Chamber.
Liberal MP Katie Allen copped both barrels from her fellow Melburnian, with Mr Hill incandescent with rage after she interjected on his speech.
"You represent the wealthiest people in our city and you come in here and take the piss when I'm talking about vulnerable people being extorted," he shouted.
"You are a disgrace. You are an absolute disgrace."
Mr Hill repeatedly slammed the table in front of him as Dr Allen sat quietly listening to his outburst.
Labor MP Mike Freelander, who was moderating debate, attempted to bring the situation under control, but the shouting continued despite Mr Hill's microphone being turned off.
Mr Hill, who represents Bruce in southwest Melbourne, attacked Dr Allen as the "arch Tory" from the inner-city electorate of Higgins.
"The Toorak tractor brigade laugh at the people who got $20,000 fake debt notices," he said.
Dr Allen asked him to withdraw, saying he had misrepresented her view and denied laughing over the issue.
"I would be very upset to think anybody in Australia thought I would by smiling, smirking or laughing at any of the comments I'd be saying. I find that very offensive," she said.
But Mr Hill had already left the chamber.
Dr Allen raised the issue again after Question Time in the lower house.
"The member for Bruce accused me of holding a view I did not hold simply because I live in a certain postcode," she said.
"This misrepresents me as a person but it also misrepresents the people of Higgins. It is class warfare. It is un-Australian."
Speaker Tony Smith said Mr Hill's conduct was unacceptable and praised Dr Freelander's handling of the situation.
Australian Associated Press
