‘Leave means leave’: Greens senator to stay away from parliament during investigation

“I knew absolutely nothing until assuming this position as leader, and then when I received the correspondence, I acted with what I think is timely and appropriate urgency upon receiving the correspondence. That’s my obligation, to try and ensure that these matters are dealt with fairly.”

Shoebridge would not say whether he had directed Steele-John to take leave, only that the decision was made after “a discussion”. He went on to say the senator’s leave “means leave, and he won’t be coming to parliament”.

The party leader said it would be inappropriate for him to “set parameters” around an independent investigation into the senator commissioned by the West Australian Greens.

Both Liberal senator Dave Sharma and deputy Nationals leader Bridget McKenzie said it was “appropriate” for Steele-John to take leave from parliament while allegations were investigated.

“I think, until these allegations are resolved, it would be appropriate for him to take leave from parliament as well as the party room,” Sharma told Nine’s Today show on Friday.