Green Senator To Skip Parliament Amid Probe

The Australian Senate is set to enter a new week without one of its prominent members, as Jordon Steele-John confirms his absence while a formal review of his conduct gets underway. The Western Australian Greens senator has officially stepped back from the chamber to allow an independent investigation to move forward without interference.

Steele-John issued an apology for making a confidential internal document public earlier this week. The three-page letter, originally sent to party leader David Shoebridge in early October, detailed serious complaints regarding the senator's behavior toward women over the past eight years. The senator shared the full text on social media on Saturday afternoon but removed the post later that day. He explained that he believed the letter was already circulating online and did not want to appear evasive. He acknowledged that his decision might have been a mistake and expressed regret for the extra pressure it placed on those involved.

In a statement released late on Friday, which has since been removed from his social channels, the 32 year old explained his reasoning for staying away. He noted that he considered joining the Senate estimates hearings via video link but was informed that remote participation was not an acceptable option. He pointed to increasing calls from colleagues for him to sit out the session. He argued that a precedent had already been established for keeping members out when complaints are pending, stating that he would have done the same if a formal complaint had been lodged against him.

The situation has been complicated by a public disagreement between Steele-John and his party leader. Shoebridge stated that the senator requested leave and that he had approved it last week after seven party members wrote to him urging a thorough look into the matter. Steele-John has disputed this version of events, denying that he ever agreed to take leave. This dispute has cast doubt on his attendance for the remainder of the year.

The allegations are now being handled by an independent panel commissioned by the Western Australian Greens. The claims have also been referred to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission for further scrutiny. The original letter, dated October 13, noted that the authors were aware of multiple serious misconduct claims concerning the senator's conduct in the presence of women. It highlighted one incident of sexual harassment at a campaign event in 2024. The alleged victim had not reported the matter at the time due to fears of backlash.

A second claim referenced serious sexual misconduct in 2025. Steele-John later clarified that this specific issue was raised by a former partner. He said the matter was investigated by local police, which resulted in a finding of no charges. Police confirmed that the investigation was closed in May without charges being laid. The letter also mentioned a disparaging nickname for the senator, described as a reputation for inappropriate behavior. The authors emphasized that an allegation is not proof of guilt but believed a thorough investigation was in the party's best interest.

In a lengthy response last Sunday, Steele-John rejected the claims. He accused an unofficial faction within his state branch of leaking the letter to the media. He described the move as a political strategy to force his exit from the Senate. He maintained that any claims about his behavior should be examined fairly and thoroughly to reach a definitive conclusion.