Full Breakdown
Warren Pickering’s drug-use admission and its political fallout
9/9/2026, 2:14:15 AM
Core Event – Admission and press conference
On Tuesday, One Nation’s Victorian leader Warren Pickering addressed reporters after allegations published in *The Australian*. He confirmed that, in his twenties, he used “speed, amphetamines, ecstasy and marijuana” and lost his driver’s licence for low-level drink-driving on three occasions. Pickering denied ever using crystal meth and said he stopped all drug use before joining the Australian Defence Force at age 28. The press conference was held in a rented event room on the 29th floor of Crown Towers in Melbourne and was attended only by selected media; journalists from the ABC and *The Guardian* were asked to leave before it began.
Background & Context – Prior allegations and party positioning
The allegations stem from statements by Pickering’s former partner of nearly two decades, Jo Scott, who told *The Australian* that the couple used marijuana and amphetamines, including crystal meth, in the home they shared with their children. One Nation founder Pauline Hanson described the claims as “false” and a “personal matter” on September 7, 2026. The controversy emerged as One Nation prepared to contest the marginal lower-house seat of Pakenham in the November 2026 Victorian state election, having announced Pickering as its state leader the previous month.
Data & Statistics – Electoral context
Polling in Victoria shows One Nation with a primary support level of about 23 percent, suggesting the party could become a significant presence in the next state parliament. Pickering is 43 years old and will be one of several One Nation candidates on the ballot in November.
Official Statements & Responses
- Warren Pickering said his drug use was limited to his youth, that he “changed my life dramatically” after joining the defence forces, and that he is working with lawyers to remove the newspaper stories. He emphasized that the offences caused “hurt” to his loved ones and that he will “live with that forever.”
- James Ashby, One Nation’s national director, said a handwritten note referenced by *The Australian* concerned an “open relationship” and “sexual deviance,” not criminal conduct. He also noted Pickering’s willingness to address a separate issue involving a home-buying grant.
- Pauline Hanson, One Nation senator, reiterated that the matter is personal and that she stands by Pickering.
- Barnaby Joyce, One Nation senator, highlighted that Pickering disclosed his past during security vetting and was accepted into the Australian Army, adding, “He managed to serve our nation… we’re talking about something 20 years ago.”
Criticism & Opposition – Ex-partner and family comments
Jo Scott accused Pickering of using crystal meth in the presence of their children and called the allegations “false and salacious.” Her son, Johnny Scott, described his mother’s claims as a “vendetta” and suggested she is “stuck in that past.” Jo Scott’s written statement called Pickering’s admission a “masterclass in deceit and dishonesty” and urged him to resign.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps – Ice usage denial vs. allegation
Jo Scott’s interview asserted that crystal meth was used in the family home. The two positions remain unreconciled, and no independent verification of either claim has been provided.
What’s Next – Election outlook
Pickering will appear as One Nation’s candidate for the Pakenham electorate in the November 2026 Victorian state election. The party has also released its “Victorian election crime platform,” promising tougher drug-related legislation, though it has not indicated any further legal action regarding the current allegations.
