A Queensland MP has opened up about what drover her to share her harrowing story as a victim of child sexual abuse. 

Labor MP Melissa McMahon last week revealed to Queensland parliament she had been “repeatedly raped and abused” as a child.

She said she would “recover loudly so others don’t die silently” and has taken a leave of absence from parliament.

In her first interview since the speech, Ms McMahon told Sofie Formica she began reflecting on her past in the wake of national dialogue.

“One of the reasons why the last 12 months started to be a catalyst was that national discussion we were having about women’s safety in the workplace and in homes,” she said.

“If I remained silent, there were probably thousands of others who would remain silent.

“It took me a while but it was about me working up the courage to no longer be silent.”

Press PLAY below to hear Melissa McMahon share her experience 

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Image: Parliament TV via Melissa McMahon / Facebook