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A storm has erupted around Liberal MP Graham Watt after he refused to stand for Australian of the Year Rosie Batty in parliament today.

Ms Batty compared family violence to terrorism and called for more action in am address on domestic violence today.

Mr Watt, the member for Burwood, remained seated during a standing ovation after the speech.

Click play to watch the snub.

In a statement, he said he chose not to stand for ‘very personal and private reasons’ but says he is passionate about dealing with the ‘scourge of family violence and supporting all those who are victims of it, male and female’.

Statement from Liberal MP Graham Watt, who was only member who didn’t join standing ovation for Rosie Batty. pic.twitter.com/5gaJf29dSF

? 3AW Melbourne (@3AW693) November 26, 2015