Steele-John to Miss Four Senate Sittings While Independent Probe Concludes

Jordon Steele-John will not attend the Senate next week, a decision that removes the 32-year-old Greens senator from the chamber for four days while an independent investigation into his conduct moves toward completion. The senator confirmed the absence on Saturday after acknowledging that his earlier decision to publish a confidential letter online may have added to the pressure on his colleagues.

The three-page letter, originally sent to Greens leader David Shoebridge on October 13, outlined allegations of inappropriate behavior toward women spanning from 2017 to 2025. Steele-John removed the post from social media on Saturday afternoon, stating that he had seen the full text circulating elsewhere and wanted to avoid appearing evasive. "I am really sorry for any additional stress it caused," he said. He denied all claims in the document.

The letter describes a 2024 incident at a campaign event characterized as sexual harassment, which the source said was not reported at the time due to fear of backlash. It also cites a 2025 allegation of serious sexual misconduct raised by a former partner. That matter was investigated by Western Australian police, which closed the case in May with no charges laid. The document also references a nickname, "feels on wheels," which the authors said indicated a reputation for inappropriate conduct.

Tensions within the party have persisted since a dispute over whether Steele-John was on formal leave. Shoebridge stated that the senator requested leave, which was accepted last week after seven party members called for an inquiry. Steele-John has contested that he agreed to take leave, arguing instead that he is focusing on the investigation. He noted in a deleted Friday statement that he was told joining Senate estimates virtually would be "unacceptable," leading to his decision to stay away entirely.

The independent probe was commissioned by the Western Australian Greens and has been referred to the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission. In a statement last Sunday, Steele-John rejected the allegations and accused an "unofficial faction" within the branch of leaking the letter to force his departure. He described the move as "nasty political games" while insisting that any claims regarding his behavior be examined fairly and thoroughly.

The senator will resume his duties after the week in question, with the outcome of the independent investigation expected to follow in the coming months.