Full Breakdown
Greens Senator Jordon Steele-John Faces Independent Inquiry Amid Leadership Test for David Shoebridge
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
A three-page letter signed by seven current and former WA Greens staffers was sent to newly elected federal Greens leader David Shoebridge, urging an independent investigation into allegations that Senator Jordon Steele-John made inappropriate remarks toward women between 2017 and 2025. Shoebridge announced that Steele-John would take leave while the probe proceeds, but the senator denied taking leave and rejected the allegations, accusing a WA Greens faction of “nasty political games.”
Background & Context
Steele-John, a 32-year-old senator from Western Australia, is a disability-rights advocate. The party previously faced criticism over its handling of former senator Dorinda Cox’s workplace-bullying allegations, which were investigated internally without substantive reform. A crisis-communications manual referenced in reporting mentions former leader Richard Di Natale, who says he was unaware of its existence and supports an independent inquiry.
Leadership Challenge for David Shoebridge
Shoebridge, who assumed Greens leadership three weeks ago, has already confronted two high-profile issues: opposition to Australian military aid to Ukraine and the Steele-John misconduct claims. He told ABC’s Sally Sara that, after receiving the correspondence outlining “quite serious concerns,” he determined an independent, fair, and timely inquiry was required and discussed the matter with Steele-John, who agreed to the process. Shoebridge noted he lacks the authority to compel a senator to take leave; expulsion would require a secret ballot of at least two-thirds of the party room.
Independent Inquiry Details
The WA division appointed Modern Legal, an independent law firm specializing in employment law, to conduct the inquiry. Unlike the earlier Cox investigation, Modern Legal was engaged on a Wednesday evening by the state branch, ensuring separation from party leadership. The inquiry is expected to protect the identities of any women who choose to speak, with at least two potential complainants prepared to give testimony.
Official Statements & Responses
- David Shoebridge: Emphasised the need for an impartial process and said any move to expel Steele-John would be “nuclear” and require broad party-room support.
- Jordon Steele-John: Rejected the allegations, denied agreeing to parliamentary leave, and framed his statement as a defence against being presumed guilty.
- Richard Di Natale: Stated he was unaware of the crisis-communications document and expressed support for an independent investigation.
Potential Political Implications
The handling of the allegations tests Shoebridge’s leadership credibility and the Greens’ internal governance. Supporters argue that allowing a senator under investigation to continue public duties could damage the party’s reputation, while some within the party suggest the claims may be politically motivated.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
- Leave Status: Shoebridge says Steele-John agreed to take leave; Steele-John says he remains active in the Senate.
- Motivation: Sources differ on whether the allegations are genuine concerns or a factional maneuver aimed at weakening Shoebridge’s authority.
- Witness Availability: At least two women are prepared to speak, but their identities and the specifics of their allegations remain undisclosed.
What’s Next
The Modern Legal inquiry will commence in the coming weeks. Its findings, the party-room response to any recommendations, and Steele-John’s participation in upcoming Senate estimates hearings will shape the Greens’ internal dynamics and public perception.