Greens Senator Misses Estimates as Party Stalls on Forced Leave

The federal Greens face a leadership test as they navigate misconduct allegations against Jordon Steele-John. More than one week after reports surfaced regarding inappropriate behavior toward women, the senator’s status within the party remains unresolved. The issue now centers on the authority of the new party leader to enforce accountability.

In early October, The Nine newspapers reported that a three-page letter was sent to David Shoebridge. The document called for an independent investigation into Steele-John. It cited secondhand claims that the Western Australian senator acted inappropriately toward women between 2017 and 2025. Shoebridge initially announced that the 32-year-old senator would take leave while an independent probe examined the claims. That step aligned with the party’s stated values of treating such matters seriously and fairly.

The situation complicated within days. Steele-John rejected the allegations and denied agreeing to take leave. He accused an internal faction of the Western Australian Greens of playing 'nasty political games' by releasing the letter to media outlets. The senator stated he spoke publicly to prevent his silence from being interpreted as guilt. Shoebridge maintains that Steele-John agreed to leave, but he concedes he lacks the individual power to compel the senator.

Party rules require a secret ballot for expulsion. More than seven members must vote to remove Steele-John to force compliance. That threshold represents two-thirds of the party room. Such a move would be drastic. Even if the independent investigation clears Steele-John, his standing in the chamber would be damaged.

The dispute has immediate consequences for the upcoming Senate estimates hearings. Steele-John serves as the party’s disability spokesperson. The NDIS is scheduled for major changes before the end of the decade. He will not attend the sessions. In a statement issued late Friday, he said he explored a digital participation option but was 'informed that would also be unacceptable.' He plans to focus on the independent investigation by the Western Australian Greens, which he hopes will commence soon.

Supporters inside and outside the party found it difficult to accept a federal member accused of sexual misconduct continuing public duties. No complainant has come forward directly. The concern is sharpened by a growing backlash against the #MeToo movement in mainstream society. Rumors have followed the senator throughout his time in office. His adversaries may have raised the allegations for advantage in the state’s pre-selection process. Even if the claims are malicious, standing aside during the investigation would be a simpler course of action.

The decision reflects on Shoebridge’s leadership as much as on party process. The Greens pride themselves on consensus decision-making. Shoebridge needs the party room’s backing to pursue expulsion. His handling of the issue will set the tone for his leadership. Depending on his actions, the party could face a bitter fight with Steele-John. The situation is politically, legally, and ethically fraught, and there are unlikely to be any winners.