10 November 2023

UPDATE: Parallel investigations launched into underage sex allegations made against Greens MLA Johnathan Davis

| Claire Fenwicke
Johnathan Davis

Police have confirmed an investigation is underway into ACT Greens MLA Johnathan Davis. Photo: Region.

CONTENT WARNING: This article discusses allegations of child sex abuse.

UPDATE 2:25 pm: Two investigations have been launched into allegations of “possible sexual interactions with young people” made against Greens MLA Johnathan Davis.

Police have confirmed a report has been made to them, and a subsequent investigation opened after two complaints were made to Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury earlier this week.

In a message seen by Region, Mr Rattenbury informed ACT Greens members he has also reported the allegations to the Clerk of the Legislative Assembly to investigate any issues involving misconduct or breaches of the code of conduct.

“We take the conduct of our MLAs seriously and we expect the highest standards from our representatives and members in office,” Mr Rattenbury said.

“I have also referred this matter to the ACT Greens’ Management Committee.”

Mr Rattenbury confirmed the complaints made to him related to “possible sexual interactions with younger people” and urged anyone impacted by reporting of the allegations to seek help or reach out.

“I am truly sorry for anyone who is triggered or upset by these reports. I am also truly sorry to and for the young people [allegedly] involved in this matter,” he said.

“Nobody yet has a full picture of what has happened, nor how these investigations will resolve. I am prioritising the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved, including staff and party members.”

Mr Davis has been stood down from his MLA duties indefinitely.

Johnathan Davis MLA.

ACT Greens MLA Johnathan Davis was stood down from duties by the Attorney-General earlier this week. Photo: Thomas Lucraft.

12 pm – ACT Greens MLA and Brindabella representative Johnathan Davis has been urged to “consider” his political future in the wake of media reports he had sex with one underage person and a relationship with another teen.

Attorney-General and ACT Greens leader Shane Rattenbury confirmed a “complaint” had been brought to his attention earlier this week, with another following shortly after.

“I immediately asked a member of my senior staff to do an initial review to establish the appropriate next steps, and I have stood Mr Davis down from his MLA duties indefinitely,” he said.

“My office has not seen evidence of illegal activity, but we are reporting what we know of the complaints to police.”

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In a joint statement, Chief Minister Andrew Barr and Acting Chief Minister Yvette Berry said Mr Davis needs to “consider” his role in the Assembly.

“These are very serious allegations against a sitting MLA and do impact his ability to undertake his role,” they said.

“The best path would be to accept what we understand to be the position of the ACT Greens party leadership and resign his position in the Assembly.”

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The Chief Minister’s office had been made aware a media report would be made about the allegations earlier this morning and also understood it was being referred to police.

“These are very serious allegations … and [we] expect a full investigation to take place,” Mr Barr and Ms Berry said.

“We have asked the ACT Greens to ensure support is provided to the individuals who have made these matters public. Other support services are available to members of the community who are distressed by this reporting.”

Both Mr Davis’ political Instagram and Facebook pages have been pulled down.

An ACT Policing spokesperson confirmed it has received a referral in relation to the accusations.

“Investigations into this matter are ongoing, and it would be inappropriate to comment further,” they said.

If you or someone you know has been impacted by this reporting, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14. In an emergency, contact Triple Zero (000).

If you would like to report a crime or require police assistance, contact 131 444. Help is also available from the Canberra Rape Crisis Centre on 6247 2525 or 0488 586 518 (text line only).

More to come.

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