Steele-John apologizes after deleting misconduct letter post

Greens senator Jordon Steele-John will not attend parliament next week. He confirmed the absence as he apologized for publicly sharing a confidential letter that detailed allegations against him. Steele-John, 32, denies all claims of inappropriate behavior.

The senator removed a social media post on Saturday afternoon. The post contained a three-page letter sent to Greens leader David Shoebridge earlier in October. The document called for an investigation into alleged misconduct toward women between 2017 and 2025. Steele-John said he saw the full letter circulating online and did not want to appear evasive. He stated, “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.”

In a statement posted late Friday night and later deleted, the senator explained why he is staying away. He considered joining Senate estimates virtually but was told that option was “unacceptable.” He said he will focus on completing the independent investigation. He cited a “growing chorus” urging his absence and noted a precedent for keeping parliamentarians out after “allegations of allegations.” He added, “Had an allegation or complaint been made against me, I would have taken these actions immediately.”

The dispute over his status began after a public disagreement with Shoebridge. Shoebridge stated that Steele-John requested leave and that he accepted it last week. This followed a letter from seven party members urging an investigation. Steele-John has denied agreeing to take leave. His attendance for the remainder of the year was previously in doubt due to this disagreement.

The complaints are now under independent review by the WA Greens and have been referred to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission. The letter, dated 13 October and first published by Nine newspapers, described “multiple allegations of serious misconduct” regarding his behavior in the presence of women. It cited an allegation of sexual harassment at a 2024 Greens campaign event. The alleged victim had not reported the incident due to fear of backlash.

The document also referenced “serious sexual misconduct” in 2025. Steele-John said this claim came from a former partner and was investigated by Western Australian police. Police closed the investigation in May with a finding of no charges. The letter also mentioned a nickname, “feels on wheels,” which the authors said suggested a reputation for inappropriate behavior. They emphasized that an allegation does not equal guilt.

Steele-John rejected the allegations in a statement last Sunday. He accused an “unofficial faction” within the WA branch of leaking the letter to remove him from the Senate. He described the move as “nasty political games” and said the claims should be investigated “fairly and thoroughly.”