Queensland Labor MP Jimmy Sullivan back in fold after domestic violence case resolved
Queensland Opposition Leader Steven Miles has ‘welcomed’ embattled MP Jimmy Sullivan back to parliament and the Labor fold, after police withdrew court action.
Queensland Opposition Leader Steven Miles has “welcomed” embattled MP Jimmy Sullivan back to parliament and the Labor fold, after police withdrew court action alleging the backbencher was involved in a “reported domestic violence incident” the night after the election.
The Crisafulli Liberal National Party government attacked Mr Miles’ leadership during a fiery opening session of parliament for the year, questioning the former Premier’s credibility on domestic violence issues over his handling of Mr Sullivan’s situation.
Police responded to a “reported domestic violence incident” at the Stafford MP’s suburban Brisbane home on the evening of Sunday October 27; no criminal charges were laid but officers took civil action in the Brisbane Magistrates Court against the second-term politician.
Mr Miles ordered Mr Sullivan to take leave until “his legal and medical matters were resolved”. He was finally sworn in on Tuesday, more than three months after he won his seat.
Police withdrew the civil application before Magistrate Peter Saggers earlier this month, but Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie demanded Mr Sullivan explain the allegations against him, and challenged Mr Miles and Deputy Opposition Leader Cameron Dick to declare whether they stood by the MP.
Some of Mr Sullivan’s Labor colleagues have previously expressed concern – and frustration – about his relationship with alcohol, and his behaviour during the election campaign and in the immediate aftermath.
In a personal explanation to the parliament, Mr Sullivan criticised the LNP government for politicising his absence from the first two sitting weeks of parliament, and accused Mr Crisafulli of failing a “test of decency”.
He said the “care and support” of medical staff at the Brisbane Private Hospital meant he was “a better dad and a better husband”.
Mr Sullivan did not detail the allegations made against him, nor what happened at his house on the night after the election.
Mr Miles left the parliament when Mr Sullivan’s situation was debated, and returned only when a vote was called on the matter. When asked whether he supported Mr Sullivan to remain in the ALP, Mr Miles told The Australian that the MP had “fulfilled his obligations in addressing his personal matters”.
“The Labor caucus has welcomed the member back to parliament today, and will continue to support him in prioritising his health,” he said.
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