Victorian Labor MP Will Fowles has resigned from the parliamentary Labor party over an alleged “serious assault”, according to a statement issued by state premier Daniel Andrews
Andrews said he was advised of the “alleged incident” on Thursday.
Speaking at a press conference today, Andrews refused to reveal any more details about the allegations but said the matter is being taken seriously.
“The safety of everybody in the workplace is taken very seriously, Andrews said.
“It’s no longer acceptable to me for Fowles to remain as a member of the parliamentary Labor Party.
“I sought and received his resignation. I will leave it to him to make any statements he chooses to make. That is a matter for him.”
The comments come after Andrews revealed the allegations against the Ringwood MP had been referred to Victoria Police.
“My office made further inquiries over Friday and Saturday and has now received information from a government employee about an alleged serious assault by the Member for Ringwood,” Andrew said in a statement.
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“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 confirmed they had received a referral from the State Government regarding an assault.
“No official complaint has been received from a victim in relation to the matter,” police said.
“Police have provided contact details should a victim choose to make a report.”
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