This was published 1 year ago
Labor MP Will Fowles resigns over alleged serious assault
By Broede Carmody
Victorian state Labor MP Will Fowles has resigned from the parliamentary Labor Party amid assault allegations.
Premier Daniel Andrews said in a statement on Saturday evening that his office was advised of an “alleged incident” on Thursday afternoon.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews with MP Will Fowles.
”My office made further inquiries over Friday 4 and Saturday 5 August and has now received information from a government employee about an alleged serious assault by the Member for Ringwood,” Andrews said.
“My office referred the matter to Victoria Police on Saturday evening. Tonight I also sought and received the Member for Ringwood’s resignation from the Parliamentary Labor Party.
“The complainant has been and will continue to be supported and their privacy should be respected. The wellbeing of staff and their right to a safe workplace is not negotiable.”
Victoria Police issued a statement on Sunday morning, saying the government’s referral had been received and that an official complaint had not yet been launched.
Fowles has previously opened up about substance and alcohol abuse following reports he kicked in a Canberra hotel room door in 2019.
After the incident in Canberra, he took leave on full pay while receiving treatment.
At the time, the premier said Fowles had his full support.
Fowles has been contacted for comment.
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