Queensland MP Jimmy Sullivan has been expelled from the Labor caucus, requiring him to sit on the crossbench. This decision follows a challenging period for Sullivan, the member for Stafford in Brisbane, marked by controversy and scrutiny.
His removal from the party occurred swiftly, with Sullivan leaving parliament via a back entrance after his expulsion was confirmed through an emergency caucus vote led by former Premier Steven Miles. Miles announced that the decision was unanimous and stated that he would also pursue Sullivan’s removal from the party’s endorsement.
Sullivan’s troubles began following an incident at his home, which involved police intervention on the day after the state election; this matter was eventually dismissed in court. However, the opposition, the LNP, continued to press the issue in parliament, prompting Sullivan to accuse them of a lack of decency while privately, his fellow Labor MPs expressed their concerns.
In response to his health issues, Sullivan expressed gratitude towards his leadership team for their support, although Miles indicated that Sullivan had not adhered to a mandated return-to-work plan. He asserted that the decision to expel Sullivan was a necessary measure to ensure compliance with this plan.
Sullivan was reportedly expected to abstain from consuming alcohol at work functions but maintains that he has acted in accordance with all stipulated requirements, characterising his expulsion as a “cheap political move.” Although removed from the Labor party, he will now function as an independent MP on the crossbench.