Federal Labor MP Luke Gosling has announced he will stand aside from his position as special envoy for defence, veterans' affairs, and Northern Australia. This decision follows charges against him for breaching bail conditions, which came less than a month after he was charged with two counts of assault related to an alleged incident involving Northern Territory Administrator David Connolly.

Gosling's bail conditions prohibited him from coming within 50 metres of NT Government House and required him to notify Connolly's office 48 hours before attending any event where both would be present. Additionally, he was mandated to maintain a distance of 15 metres from the administrator if attending the same event.

In a statement, Gosling categorically denied all allegations and affirmed his intention to rigorously defend himself in court. He said, "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."

The office of the Northern Territory Administrator declined to comment on the breach of bail charge, stating it was a matter for police.

Sources