Labor MP Luke Gosling intends to remain in his role as the government’s special envoy for defence and veterans’ affairs despite facing two assault charges involving the Northern Territory’s vice-regal representative. Gosling made the remarks outside Darwin Local Court on Friday, where he expressed his intention to contest the allegations, which he has strongly denied.

The charges stem from two alleged incidents at a Thai cultural festival in Darwin on July 18. The first incident reportedly involved contact from behind while NT Administrator David Conolly’s back was turned, and the second involved a “hip-and-shoulder collision” followed by a “strike,” with the two events occurring approximately 30 minutes apart.

Following a hearing on Friday, Justice Stephen Geary amended Gosling’s bail conditions, permitting him to attend the same public events as NT Administrator Conolly under specific restrictions. These include maintaining a 15-meter distance from Conolly, refraining from communication, and providing 48 hours’ notice to the administrator’s office. Gosling had sought the modification out of concern that the original bail conditions could prevent his attendance at the Garma festival on Saturday, a key community event.

Gosling’s lawyer, Marty Aust SC, argued in court that his client must attend public events alongside the administrator to fulfill his parliamentary duties effectively. Aust also described the case against Gosling as “very weak,” noting that although the allegations are detailed, no witnesses have corroborated the account. He maintained that his client has no previous criminal history and has previously attended events with Conolly without incident.

Gosling disputed claims from NT Police that authorities had attempted to contact him at least a week before his arrest, stating he only became aware of the investigation on Wednesday while visiting Queensland. He returned to Darwin after midnight and was arrested early Thursday morning.

Gosling’s matter is set to return to court on September 16, though he has been excused from appearing in person if represented by counsel.

The case has sparked political debate, with Coalition figures calling on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to suspend Gosling from his special envoy role pending the outcome of the proceedings. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor characterized the situation as a “test of leadership” and criticized Albanese for not taking action. However, with the Prime Minister on leave, acting Prime Minister Richard Marles defended Gosling, emphasizing the presumption of innocence and praising his performance as the member for Solomon and in his envoy role. Marles called for patience as the legal process unfolds.