A growing controversy has emerged within the Greens party in Western Australia over allegations against Senator Jordon Steele-John, raising concerns about potential political fallout ahead of upcoming elections.
The allegations, which reportedly date back to 2024 and 2025, include accusations of sexual harassment. They were brought to public attention following a letter sent to fellow Greens Senator David Shoebridge by seven party members who are not direct victims but claim to have received details of the alleged incidents. The letter calls for a thorough, independent investigation prioritizing the experiences of the women who have come forward.
Party insiders suggest that even if the allegations prove credible, it is unlikely that Senator Steele-John’s seat would become vacant. Instead, it is expected that he might resign from the Greens and continue to serve as an independent for the remainder of his term. Steele-John secured another six-year term at the last federal election in 2025.
Since the letter's release, more women have reportedly come forward with further allegations against the senator. The situation has stirred unease within the party due to the possible impact on the Greens’ brand and electoral prospects, particularly in Western Australia. The Greens are aiming to regain the Senate seat currently held by former Greens senator Dorinda Cox, who defected to the Labor Party in June 2025 amid her own controversies involving bullying allegations from former staff.
The concerns over reputational damage are compounded by the presence of other former Greens senators who have left the party. Senator Lidia Thorpe departed in 2023 and now sits as an independent, underscoring ongoing internal tensions.
Some social media posts have speculated about the involvement of WA upper house Greens MP Sophie McNeill in the emergence of the allegations against Steele-John. However, sources close to the matter have denied any involvement or prior knowledge on McNeill’s part. McNeill, a former ABC Four Corners reporter, has been a vocal critic of Israel, the AUKUS security pact, and the gas industry since her election last year, and is widely seen as a potential candidate for federal parliament. Supporters argue that the allegations against Steele-John have hindered her and other aspirants' chances of securing a Greens Senate seat in Western Australia.
In response to the allegations, the four WA Greens state MPs released a joint statement emphasizing the need for a fair, transparent, and prompt investigation. They expressed support for making key findings of the inquiry public to ensure accountability.
The controversy surrounding Steele-John comes amid broader challenges for the Greens, including the rising support for the One Nation party and internal party divisions. How the investigation proceeds and its political consequences will be closely watched as the Greens prepare for forthcoming electoral contests in the state.