Key facts
- A Victorian Liberal MP has accused a colleague of assault at a community event.
- Victoria police are investigating the incident, which occurred last month.
- The accused MP denies the allegation and is considering legal action.
- The incident has caused turmoil for the Liberal party five months before the state election.
- Opposition leader Jess Wilson declined to comment due to the ongoing police investigation.
The Victorian Liberal party is facing internal turmoil following an accusation of assault made by one female MP against a male colleague. The alleged incident occurred at a community event, and Victoria police have confirmed they are investigating. CCTV footage of the event has reportedly circulated. The accused MP vehemently denies the allegation and is reportedly considering defamation legal action.
Both MPs involved have not been named by Guardian Australia. The woman reportedly approached the party with the allegation before reporting it to the police on June 16. She did not require medical attention following the incident.
Opposition leader Jess Wilson stated that commenting on the matter would be inappropriate due to the ongoing police investigation, emphasizing the need for due process and privacy for those involved. She reiterated her focus on issues important to Victorians ahead of the November state election.
Attorney General Sonya Kilkenny has called on Wilson to answer 10 questions regarding the allegations, including the appropriateness of the accused MP remaining in the party room and whether the matter has been referred to the Parliamentary Workplace Standards and Integrity Commission. The commission, established to investigate misconduct allegations involving members of parliament, has not confirmed if it has received a referral or is investigating.