The plot thickens in the Australian Greens’ internal drama. Federal leader David Shoebridge is officially denying any knowledge of a 47-page 'secret dossier' that allegedly outlines how to manage and suppress media coverage regarding misconduct allegations against Western Australian senator Jordon Steele-John.
The allegations
Reports surfaced Friday afternoon claiming the document, which dates back to 2016, exists. While the WA Greens have confirmed the existence of this document, they claim it was a communication strategy created in response to historical allegations against Steele-John. According to the party, those 2016 allegations were never substantiated and no formal complaints were ever lodged by the named individuals.
However, Steele-John—who is 32—has recently faced public airings of complaints involving allegedly inappropriate comments made to women between 2017 and 2025. He’s lowkey rejecting all of it, stating he is not the person being characterized in these reports.
What happens now?
Shoebridge is making it clear that his office had zero involvement with that dossier, stating it was neither 'made by, used by, or seen by' them. He has officially referred the matter to the independent parliamentary standards commission (IPSC).
As for Steele-John, he has stepped out of the party room. Shoebridge confirmed the senator will remain on leave until independent investigations into the complaints are wrapped up. The WA Greens are currently seeking legal advice on how to set up their own independent inquiry, emphasizing that everyone deserves to feel safe at work. Real talk, it’s a messy situation and the party is clearly trying to navigate it without the vibes being completely off.
Why it matters
This highlights the tension between historical internal party management and the growing demand for modern, independent accountability in parliamentary workplaces. With the Greens leader now referring the matter to an independent commission, the focus shifts to whether the party’s historical handling of these claims holds up under external scrutiny.
