Embattled Labor MP Jimmy Sullivan to take immediate leave after incident at Brisbane home

Opposition Leader Steven Miles has directed Stafford MP Jimmy Sullivan to take immediate leave meaning he will not be present at Labor’s first caucus meeting.

Stafford MP Jimmy Sullivan (right) at the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Thursday. Picture: Lyndon Mechielsen/Courier Mail

Beleaguered MP Jimmy Sullivan has been directed to take immediate leave following his court appearance, days after police were called to his home.

That’s despite Mr Sullivan declaring he is “absolutely” fit to serve in parliament after attending Brisbane Magistrates Court days after police responded to an incident in his Kedron home.

Opposition Leader Steven Miles gave the direction to Mr Sullivan on Thursday.

“I have spoken to the Member for Stafford and I have directed him to take leave until his legal and medical matters have been resolved,“ Mr Miles said.

He will not be present at Labor’s first caucus meeting.

It comes after Mr Sullivan attended the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Thursday morning where he told reporters outside that he was “absolutely” fit to serve in parliament.

Police were called to his Kedron home on Sunday, the day after the state election, in response to an incident.

Former Premier Steven Miles directed Mr Sullivan to take leave. Picture Lachie Millard

If Mr Sullivan is found to have brought the party into disrepute, his membership could be suspended.

Mr Miles also holds the power to suspend Mr Sullivan from his caucus.

It would effectively mean Mr Sullivan would be booted from the party and forced to sit on the crossbench, less he resigns on his own terms.

It is understood Mr Sullivan will not return before December 5.

Mr Sullivan was inside the Brisbane Magistrates Court precinct for about 30 minutes on Thursday morning.

When asked by reporters why he was in court and if it had anything to do with events on the weekend, the MP said “sorry I don’t even know who you are”.

Mr Sullivan, when asked if he was fit to serve in parliament, said “absolutely”.

His lawyer said Mr Sullivan and his family had requested privacy.

“You’ll appreciate at this time Mr Sullivan and his family would appreciate some privacy, thank you,” he said.

Police responded to an incident at Mr Sullivan’s Kedron home late on Sunday.

Multiple sources, including people close to the Stafford MP, have raised concerns about his welfare and relationship with alcohol.

Jimmy Sullivan during Question Time in Parliament. Picture: Liam Kidston

They said while Mr Sullivan had suffered intense personal struggles for some time, things got worse during the election campaign.

Mr Sullivan earlier this week said he had already sought support.

“I’m surrounded by good people including very good friend and mentor Dr Lynham,” he said.

“I’m at a busy time in my life, not just the election, but with a beautiful newborn baby.”

Originally published as Embattled Labor MP Jimmy Sullivan to take immediate leave after incident at Brisbane home