As Greens prepare for spotlight moment, Jordon Steele-John's position remains in limbo amid unresolved party decisions

Allegations and conflicting accounts

The allegations, based on second-hand accounts, concern claims that Steele-John acted inappropriately towards women between 2017 and 2025. They became public more than a week ago, leaving his position in the party uncertain.

Steele-John has rejected the allegations and denied agreeing to take leave from parliament. He accused a faction within the Western Australian Greens of “nasty political games” over its decision to release a letter to the media.

Shoebridge maintains Steele-John agreed to take leave, while acknowledging he cannot compel the senator to do so alone. The two accounts differ on whether an agreement was reached.

Senate estimates decision looms

On Monday, the Greens will face a decision about Steele-John’s attendance at Senate estimates. The NDIS is undergoing major changes between now and the end of the decade, and Steele-John is the party’s disability spokesperson.

Steele-John is championed and well-liked within the disability community. The party may consider whether he can attend, including virtually. The possibility that political opponents used the allegations to gain an advantage in Western Australia’s preselection is also part of the party’s considerations.

Leadership under pressure

Forcing Steele-John to take leave could have serious consequences for his standing in the party room, even if an independent investigation by the WA Greens clears him of wrongdoing. The decision would also reflect on how Shoebridge handles the issue.

Shoebridge would need the party room’s support to pursue expulsion. His response could shape the rest of his leadership and, depending on what he does, prompt a conflict with Steele-John.