One Nation's Victorian leader, Warren Pickering, has publicly admitted to using illegal drugs in his twenties, including marijuana, ecstasy, and amphetamines. He has, however, vehemently denied allegations of using methamphetamine, commonly known as ice, or using such substances in a house with children present.
During a press conference, Pickering, a former Australian Defence Force member, stated that he used these drugs as a young man but emphasized that he was not a habitual user and never identified as a drug addict. He clarified that his past drug use occurred nearly two decades ago. "Ice is not on that list. Never," Pickering stated, directly addressing the drug use claims. He called the accusation of using methamphetamine in a house with children the "worst accusation."
One Nation director James Ashby, who stood by Pickering at the press conference, defended the Victorian leader. Ashby highlighted that the allegations pertained to events from nearly twenty years ago and suggested that Pickering's experiences are common among many One Nation candidates, referring to them as "people with lived experience."
Pickering also acknowledged a past open relationship and spoke about exploring his sexuality during that period, which was alluded to in allegations made by his former partner, Jo Scott. He expressed regret over past mistakes, stating they caused harm to himself, his loved ones, and his children, and that he would live with those consequences forever. He credited joining the Australian Defence Force at age 28 with significantly changing the course of his life.
Pickering further admitted to drink-driving offenses as an 18-year-old and a 20-year-old, describing them as actions he is not proud of. He asserted that he stopped using drugs long before enlisting in the military.
Pickering's children also offered a defense of their father, accusing their mother of a prolonged campaign against him. His eldest stepson, Johnny, described his mother as a "narcissistic, compulsive liar" and claimed she had a history of substance abuse. He asserted that Pickering had transformed his life and remained a positive influence.
When asked why voters should judge him differently from his critics, Pickering suggested that individuals should be assessed on their response to mistakes and their efforts at redemption. "What have they done to redeem themselves? Not only their family, but their community, but within themselves. I'm proud of the man I am today," he said.