Axed MP Will Fowles accuses Vic Premier Daniel Andrews of political hit job

Former Labor MP Will Fowles has vehemently denied allegations of assault at a Ringwood branch meeting, publicly accusing the Victorian Premier of a political hit job.

Axed MP Will Fowles has publicly accused Daniel Andrews of a political hit job as he continues to deny allegations of assault.

Mr Fowles addressed an ALP branch meeting in Ringwood on Tuesday night, telling members he was the victim of a hit job from the premier.

The Ringwood MP resigned following a two-day investigation into the alleged assault by the Premier’s office earlier this month.

But despite a referral being made to Victoria Police by the government, no formal police complaint has been made or further investigation launched.

Sources who attended the meeting said Mr Fowles spoke at length, continued to maintain his innocence, and said he was still unclear of the actual allegations that forced his resignation from the parliamentary Labor Party.

Will Fowles resigned earlier this month. Picture: Mark Stewart

He also talked about his mental health and the impact the allegations have had on his children.

Sources said members were split in their support for Mr Fowles, with some welcoming his attendance at the meeting.

“As a member of the Australian Labor Party, I attended my local branch meeting last night,” Mr Fowles said.

“I thought it was important that local members hear directly from me what has occurred in recent weeks.

“That characterisation might not be entirely accurate, but it is true that I expressed my dissatisfaction with my treatment.

“Given that police have received no complaint, there is no investigation, and I have been provided with no further details my focus is now solely on my work for my constituents and my responsibilities to my family.”

Will Fowles and Daniel Andrews in a picture from Facebook, 2022. Picture: Facebook

It is understood lawyers for Mr Fowles have recently written to Mr Andrews reminding him of his legal responsibilities when talking about the case.

Mr Andrews has been scathing of Mr Fowles in recent weeks saying it was not acceptable for him to remain a member of the parliamentary Labor Party.

He has also judged the complaint made by Mr Fowles as “credible” and commented on the “safety of staff”.

It is understood the legal note, which has not been replied to, raises concerns about Mr Fowles’ rightful presumption of innocence.

Last week the government successfully moved a motion to replace him as chair of Electoral Matters Committee with first term MP Luba Grigorovitch.

Mr Fowles refused to speculate on his future as an MP.

But it is understood he is yet to decide whether or not he will resign from parliament altogether.

The state opposition has called on the Speaker of parliament and the Department of Premier and Cabinet to launch formal investigations into the complaints.

Sources said Mr Fowles was seen acting erratically inside the state parliament’s members’ before the alleged assault.

He has vehemently denied any wrongdoing.

“I was shocked and distressed to learn last night that an allegation of assault has been made against me,” he said after the allegations were made public.

“The details of the claim have not been put to me. I strenuously deny any allegation of assault. It is not true. There was no assault.

“I was asked to stand aside as a member of the Parliamentary Labor Party, a situation I expect will be temporary.”