Mark Parton, the opposition leader of the Liberal Party in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), has denied claims that he sent a text message reading “my job is boring” to a sex worker during a parliamentary hearing. The message, which included a photo taken during the session, became the subject of an anonymous complaint to the ACT Legislative Assembly’s commissioner for standards.

Parton, 59, acknowledged sending the message but refuted allegations it was directed to a sex worker. While he declined to specify the recipient, he defended the text as part of his informal communication style, describing it as an off-the-cuff remark made during a budget estimates hearing, which he said most people find dull. He emphasised that private messages unrelated to public duties are a normal part of human behaviour.

The standards commissioner reviewed the complaint but chose not to launch an investigation, citing reasons that may include insufficient evidence, the complaint being frivolous or politically motivated. Parton interpreted the decision as a dismissal of the allegations.

At a press conference, Parton stated he would not resign despite some disapproval within his party. He maintained he retained full support from the Liberal Party, although he acknowledged that a minority might be “dismayed” or “a little disappointed.” He added that he had referred the anonymous complaint to the police, framing it as a case of harassment.

When questioned repeatedly about the content and recipient of the text, Parton confirmed sending the message containing the phrase “f---, my job is boring” but refused to confirm details about the recipient or his interactions with sex workers. He argued that such questions were not in the public interest and declined to comment further.

Parton has led the ACT Liberal Party since November 2025 and has been a member of the ACT Legislative Assembly representing Brindabella since 2016. The Assembly seat covers south-east New South Wales. Requests for further comment from Parton were made but not immediately provided.