Steele-John to sit out Senate week as misconduct review continues

Three pages of internal correspondence have set the stage for a parliamentary absence this week. Greens senator Jordon Steele-John confirmed on Saturday that he will not attend Senate sittings next week. He made the decision while an independent review of conduct allegations against him is underway.

Steele-John apologized for publicly sharing the confidential letter earlier in the week. The document, dated October 13, was originally sent to Greens leader David Shoebridge. It outlined multiple claims of inappropriate behavior toward women spanning from 2017 to 2025. The senator stated he removed the social media post because he learned the full text was circulating online and did not want to appear as if he were hiding from the information.

"I'm now not sure that was the right call and I've taken it down. I am really sorry for any additional stress it caused," Steele-John said. He added that he was advised against joining Senate estimates hearings virtually, a move he described as unacceptable to the chamber.

The letter cited specific incidents, including an allegation of sexual harassment at a 2024 Greens campaign event. The authors noted that the alleged victim had not reported the incident for fear of backlash. A second claim involved serious sexual misconduct in 2025. Steele-John said this matter was raised by a former partner and was investigated by Western Australian police, which closed the case in May with no charges laid.

The internal document also referenced a nickname, "feels on wheels," which the authors said indicated a reputation for inappropriate behavior. They emphasized that an allegation does not equate to fact or guilt and urged a thorough investigation. The claims are now being handled by an independent probe commissioned by the Western Australian Greens and have been referred to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission.

Tension within the party preceded this week's developments. Shoebridge stated that Steele-John asked for leave, which was accepted after seven party members wrote to him urging an inquiry. The senator has denied agreeing to take leave. He accused an unofficial faction within the Western Australian branch of leaking the letter to the media, describing the situation as nasty political games intended to remove him from the Senate.

Steele-John said he will focus on seeing the independent investigation through to its conclusion. He argued that a precedent had been set for keeping parliamentarians out after allegations are made, noting he would have taken the same actions immediately if a complaint had been filed against him.