Alan Jones and his high profile supporters

From elite sports stars to prime ministers and media moguls, Jones has many powerful allies, but not many of them have supported him publicly since the indecent assault allegations against him were first raised.

Billionaire James Packer made the effort to call from the United States three days after Alan Jones announced his retirement from radio.

Packer told Jones live on air in May 2020: “Just thinking about you and all the good times we’ve had together and all the kind things you have done for me …”

Jones has been an ardent supporter of Packer, publicly and privately, throughout turbulent times in the life of the former media and casino magnate.

The Packer tribute underscored the “pick and stick” ethos Jones has embraced for decades.

He has fiercely protected and supported his allies.

He also has a history of promoting and supporting young sportspeople and musical talents, some who were going through career troubles.

It is part of what has made Jones a polarising figure.

James Packer (right) has described Alan Jones as a “dear friend who I love”.

He is loyal to those he has backed for success. He has also had no hesitation attacking anyone who might criticise people he has chosen to assist.

There are other athletes he has sought to elevate for what he considered their sheer excellence.

Over the years, Jones has privately helped or simply taken to the airwaves to sing the praises of a string of elite sports people.

They have included the likes of cricketers Brett Lee and Shane Watson, swimmer Scott Miller, tennis star Mark Philippoussis, former Olympic 400m runner and rugby league player Darren Clarke, former Wallaby Brian Smith and diver Matt Mitcham.

Former Prime Ministers John Howard, Tony Abbott and Scott Morrison, celebrity accountant Anthony Bell and lawyer and business investor Margaret Cunneen have also been supported by and supportive of Jones.

But when indecent assault allegations were raised against the former radio broadcaster last December, the majority were silent.

Former Australian Prime Minister John Howard with Alan Jones, whom he calls a “good friend”. (AAP

Mr Howard told The Daily Telegraph when the allegations were raised: “As you know, Alan Jones is a good friend of mine. I have no knowledge of the matters canvassed.”

Another said: “In 30 years of friendship, I have never seen anything like this. We are standing by him privately but feel it is best to leave it to his lawyers to do the talking.”

There was, however, one further voice happy to go on the record.

“Alan is a dear, dear friend who I love,” said James Packer. “And it’s a pleasure to support him”.

Last December, fellow radio host John Laws also said: “What’s printed in the newspapers today isn’t a side of Alan I’ve personally ever witnessed. I’ve got to say I’m quite surprised by the allegations”.