Federal Labor MP Luke Gosling has temporarily stepped aside from his role as Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs and Northern Australia following a fresh charge over an alleged breach of bail.
The Member for Solomon was charged in July over two alleged assaults involving the Northern Territory Administrator David Connolly at the NT Thailand Grand Festival.
His bail conditions were varied on July 31, preventing Mr Gosling from coming within 50 metres of Government House and requiring him to give the Administrator’s office 48 hours’ notice before attending an event where they would both be present.
He is also required to remain at least 15 metres away from the Administrator at all times.
NT Police allege Mr Gosling breached those conditions on August 14, and he has been summonsed to appear in Darwin Local Court on September 30.
Mr Gosling said he categorically denies all allegations, but has decided to temporarily stand aside from his Special Envoy role while the matters are before the court.
“I am grateful to everyone that has reached out to me, my family and my office with messages of support.”
“I categorically deny all the allegations made against me.”
“However, due to the ongoing media attention and the distraction this is causing to the business of government, I have decided to temporarily stand aside as Special Envoy for Defence, Veterans’ Affairs and Northern Australia until these matters have been heard.”
Mr Gosling also said he and his office have not been told the details of the alleged bail breach, and that he will continue to defend the charge.
He has represented the federal seat of Solomon since 2016.
