The news regarding Senator Jordon Steele-John’s alleged behaviour in the workplace stunned me. It’s been sitting in my gut ever since it was published. I resisted reading everything at first because I felt so stunned and sad. Eventually I started digesting the articles, including the one the Senator penned.
I don’t know if I had put him on a pedestal; I learnt a long time ago to stop doing this to people. It’s unfair to them and to myself. They only have one way to go when we elevate a person’s character – down. And it crushes your soul into a million pieces.
What I do know is I consider him to be one of the most vital voices for people who have disabilities. A passionate and informed advocate who is not afraid to confront those with power. It is a voice that is replaceable, but this voice is greatly needed to try and save the destruction of the NDIS, and the human rights of people who have disabilities.
I do not think the Senator should have spoken publicly. I understand why he did, it’s a natural human response. I think he should have waited until the inquiry is completed, as well as any other possible action that may come out of the inquiry. Let the evidence speak. Employ a legal team that will demand integrity and evidence to support your defence. Go on leave. Stop trying to litigate your case in public.
The alleged victims must be heard. This is a serious workplace situation that must be dealt with accordingly. I hope their privacy will be respected during the process. I can only imagine the heightened anxiety they are living with. Let the evidence speak. Employ a legal team that will demand integrity and evidence to support your allegations.
And, as per usual political party operations, the Greens need to look at their policies and procedures. Just like every other political party consistently needs to do. It’s insane in 2026 that we still constantly read and hear about the failure of organisations to follow proper policy and procedure. It is so normalised it is pathetic. If only organisations and people had the guts to treat policy and procedure as a friend and not a foe.
I am gutted for people who have disabilities. The never-ending fight for survival is so tiring. The Senator’s presence made sure disability was a topic that was constantly on the minds of our MPs. I predict the Senator’s leave will be confirmed soon, he has no choice. And a massive hole of silence will result. Who will the Greens appoint as their new Spokesperson for Health and Mental Health, Disability Inclusion and the NDIS and Youth? It’s too big a job for Monique Ryan to do alone as an Independent. Will some of the Independents collaborate to ensure that the Human Rights and Support for People with Disabilities is constantly debated in both Houses?
People with Disabilities, and their Families and Advocates won’t give up. The fight wont stop. A new voice in Parliament will eventually appear, I just hope it is sooner than later.
We either believe in Human Rights for all or we don’t.
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