Greens senator takes leave amid allegations of inappropriate comments to women

Greens senator Jordon Steele-John has taken leave from the party room after complaints were made, triggering an independent review. The allegations were made by seven party members, who demanded an investigation into claims that Steele-John made inappropriate comments to a number of women.

Steele-John has rejected the claims, stating that he had referred them to the Western Australian Greens for a 'fair, independent process' that 'upholds the principles of natural justice and ensures procedural fairness for everyone involved'.

The Australian Greens take complaints seriously, and as leader, David Shoebridge has stated that the integrity of the complaints process is essential. Shoebridge has accepted Steele-John's request for leave from the party room.

The allegations against Steele-John span from 2017 to 2025, with multiple women reportedly being warned not to be alone with him due to concerns about his behaviour. A former WA Greens convener has stated that it was well-known within the party that there were concerns about Steele-John's behaviour towards women.

Steele-John has stated that he is prepared to address the allegations, and that he agrees with the principle that victims of sexual and family violence should be at the centre of any investigation. He has also stated that he is the person who experienced family violence in one of the complaints made against him.