Parliamentary absence: Greens senator stays home during review

Jordon Steele-John will not attend Senate sittings next week. The Western Australian senator confirmed his absence on Saturday, a day after removing a social media post that published a confidential letter detailing allegations of misconduct. He apologized for sharing the document, saying he wanted to avoid appearing to hide from the information. "I'm now not sure that was the right call and I've taken it down," he said. "I am really sorry for any additional stress it caused."

The letter, dated 13 October, was sent to Greens leader David Shoebridge earlier this month. It outlined reports of inappropriate behavior toward women between 2017 and 2025. The authors described one instance of sexual harassment at a campaign event in 2024 and another case of serious sexual misconduct in 2025. They noted that an allegation does not prove guilt but argued that the party should investigate every claim thoroughly. The letter also referenced a nickname, "feels on wheels," which the writers said indicated a reputation for such behavior.

Steele-John, 32, denied all the claims in a statement posted on Sunday. He accused an "unofficial faction" within the Western Australian branch of leaking the letter to the media. He described the move as "nasty political games" intended to remove him from the Senate. He stated that any claims about his behavior should be investigated fairly and thoroughly.

The senator explained his decision to stay away in a statement posted late Friday. He said he considered attending Senate estimates virtually but was told that option was "unacceptable." He cited a growing number of voices urging him to step back. He argued that a precedent had been set for keeping parliamentarians out after allegations of allegations. "Had an allegation or complaint been made against me, I would have taken these actions immediately," he noted.

The situation stems from a public dispute between Steele-John and Shoebridge regarding his leave status. Shoebridge said the senator asked for leave, which was accepted last week after seven party members wrote urging an investigation. Steele-John has denied agreeing to take leave. The complaints are now under review by an independent body commissioned by the WA Greens and have been referred to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission.

Steele-John said he will focus on seeing the independent investigation through to its conclusion. The specific allegation from 2025 was raised by a former partner. Western Australian police investigated that claim and closed the file in May with no charges laid. The senator confirmed this outcome in his recent statements.