Alan Jones to make first court appearance on sex assault charges

The 83-year-old is expected to appear at Sydney’s Downing Centre Local Court today as he faces a slew of charges relating to nine alleged victims.

In total, Jones is facing 26 charges including 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault where the alleged victim was under his authority.

He also faces allegations of assault with act of indecency, sexually touching a person without consent and common assault.

The alleged offences took place between 2001 and 2019, with the youngest of the alleged victims 17 years old at the time.

Police arrested the renowned broadcaster at his luxury apartment in Sydney’s Circular Quay in November, with him later leaving custody in silence flanked by his lawyers.

Soon after the highly publicised arrest, another alleged victim came forward, resulting in authorities bringing two additional charges.

At the time of the arrest, NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said it was anticipated other alleged victims would come forward.

“There’s no such thing as a matter that’s too old to be investigated,” she told media.

“What I’d say to victims is that there is no better time to come forward than now, and you will be listened to and we will take your matter seriously.”

Jones’ lawyer Chris Murphy said his client would defend the charges.

“He’s presumed innocent,” Murphy told reporters.

Jones began a hugely influential life on the airwaves in 1985 after a failed career in politics, becoming a feared interviewer who excelled at grilling leaders while dividing audiences with his outspoken, conservative views.

He worked with Sydney radio station 2UE before joining rival 2GB, where he was a longtime ratings juggernaut.

The State Crime Command’s Child Abuse Squad established Strike Force Bonnefin in March 2024, to investigate media reports airing allegations of abuse by Jones.