Senator Jordon Steele-John Takes Leave Amid Misconduct Allegations

Greens Senator Jordon Steele-John has taken leave from the party room after a group of seven party members requested an investigation into allegations of his conduct toward women. The letter, sent to party leader David Shoebridge, outlined 'multiple allegations' concerning Steele-John dating from 2017 to 2025.

The signatories noted that these concerns had circulated both within and outside the Greens, suggesting awareness of his alleged reputation extended beyond party membership into the wider community.

Steele-John has denied the claims, stating he has referred the matter to the WA Greens to initiate a fair and independent process. He told The Sydney Morning Herald that he "utterly reject[s] this characterisation of me, which tries to assert I am someone I am not." He added that the allegations were made without specific details and argued that any complaint should be properly investigated.

Steele-John was absent from the Senate chamber during a series of votes on Thursday afternoon. Senior Greens figures, including Shoebridge and Deputy Leader Steph Hodgins-May, also left the chamber during Question Time.

Shoebridge, who recently assumed leadership, stated that the allegations are being taken seriously and that he supports an independent investigation. "This matter needs to be resolved through a fair and independent review that ensures all parties are afforded natural justice and procedural fairness," Shoebridge told the ABC. "The Australian Greens take complaints seriously, and as leader I want to make it clear that the integrity of the complaints process is essential."