Greens senator Jordon Steele-John on leave amid allegations of inappropriate comments

Western Australian Greens senator Jordon Steele-John has taken leave from the party room amid allegations of making inappropriate comments towards women.

A letter from seven party members to Greens leader David Shoebridge, reportedly obtained by The Sydney Morning Herald, details "multiple allegations" against Senator Steele-John spanning from 2017 to 2025.

The letter states that these allegations concern his behaviour in the presence of women, with some members warning others not to be alone with him.

"These allegations all concern his behaviour in the presence of women," the authors wrote. "We are aware of multiple women who have taken up roles or volunteered in the party, who because of these allegations, have been warned not to … be alone with him."

In a statement, Senator Steele-John said he had referred the matter to the WA Greens.

"I utterly reject this characterisation of me, which tries to assert I am someone I am not," he said. "I have referred this matter to the WA Greens, so that a fair, independent process can be commissioned that upholds the principles of natural justice and ensures procedural fairness for everyone involved."

Senator Shoebridge addressed the media about the allegations, stating that the party was taking the concerns "extremely seriously" and that the matter had been referred to the WA Greens for an independent inquiry.

"I've dealt with it with the urgency which I think is appropriate," Senator Shoebridge said. "I will not be engaging in a running commentary on the matter, because it is going to a fair and independent and timely process."

The WA Greens branch said it was taking the allegations of misconduct "very seriously" and thanked those who came forward.

"We know that raising concerns can be difficult, and we respect the courage it takes for anyone to come forward," it said in a statement. "Our party is built on the contributions of members, volunteers, staff and supporters, and every one of them deserves to feel safe and respected when they take part in our work."

Other politicians have weighed in on the matter, with One Nation leader Pauline Hanson saying it was for the Greens to handle.

"It's quite interesting, isn't it. That apparently they've been going around for some years so we were aware of it," she said.

Nationals leader Matt Canavan said he expected the Greens party room to hold its members to the "same standards they expect of others".

"I don't know any of the details here. Although any allegations of these nature should be fully investigated and appropriate action should be taken," he said.

Senator Steele-John has been a vocal opponent to the government's NDIS cuts and holds portfolios including disability inclusion, health and mental health.