Harriet Shing reveals autism diagnosis in valedictory speech

Retiring Labor minister Harriet Shing revealed her autism diagnosis for the first time during a valedictory speech in the upper house of parliament on Tuesday night.

Shing, who has served in the Labor government since 2014 and held portfolios including health, water, equality, and the Suburban Rail Loop, noted that the diagnosis helped her understand why she often felt overwhelmed by situations that did not affect others. She described the decision to share her diagnosis as a “quite a confronting moment” and noted that keeping it private had often been less exhausting in the short term.

During her speech, Shing expressed gratitude to those who provided accommodations, such as adjusting lighting and managing last-minute schedule changes, to support her needs.