Qld MP Jim Madden accused of bullying by ex-partner Sarah Grist

A beleaguered state Labor MP faces fresh bullying claims, including from his ex-partner.

Member for Ipswich West Jim Madden with then partner Sarah Grist

Fresh allegations of inappropriate behaviour and bullying against a state Labor backbencher is expected to be looked at by the Clerk of the Parliament.

Beleaguered Member for Ipswich West Jim Madden was earlier this year cleared of allegations of bullying a female electorate office staffer after an investigation by Queensland Labor.

But two more people have since come forward, alleging in reports by The Australian that they had been manipulated or touched inappropriately by the MP.

This included Mr Madden’s ex-girlfriend Sarah Grist, who alleged the MP made her call him “sir” during their years-long relationship and coercively controlled her so he could gain internal party influence.

Former electorate staffer David Stone also came forward to The Australian, alleging Mr Madden had inappropriately touched him at work by tucking in his shirt and adjusting his belt under the guise of fixing his work attire.

Mr Madden did not respond to questions by The Australian and was approached for comment by The Courier-Mail.

Government frontbencher Mark Bailey, speaking to the media on Monday, said allegations made by former electorate officers would be looked into the Parliament’s Clerk as they were employees at the time.

Member for Ipswich West Jim Madden with then partner Sarah Grist

“I think it’s really clear that the Premier (Annastacia Palaszczuk) has the highest standards for her and her MPs,” he said.

“We’ve got an investigation that will happen here.

“We need to see that conducted and completed and see what the outcome of that is.”

Queensland Labor state secretary Kate Flanders confirmed neither Mr Stone nor Ms Grist had made complaints to the party about the issues they had raised in the Australian article, but if the pair opted to do so the matters would be looked at.

It is understood Ms Grist is no longer a member of the Labor Party.

It is possible that Mr Madden could be stood down from his position on the state development and regional industries committee – a post that boosts his annual salary by $25,746 – if the allegations are brought to the party and investigated.

The last MP to be stood down from their committee role was Member for Mundingburra Les Walker, who was charged then later acquitted of assault regarding an incident at Townsville’s late night precinct.

Mr Madden could also be suspended from Labor’s 52-member caucus if the alleged behaviour is raised and a vote finds a majority of the group is in favour of this action.

The Parliament Clerk was contacted for comment, though noting Monday was a public holiday.

Deputy Opposition Leader Jarrod Bleijie called for Mr Madden to be stood down by the party while an investigation took place.

“The Premier must show integrity and accountability by standing Mr Madden down, so he is not part of Labor’s caucus or serving on parliamentary committees,” he said.

“If the Premier doesn’t stand Mr Madden down, Queenslanders will know she cares more about politics than people.”