Alicia Gardiner, known for her performances in the TV shows Offspring and Deadloch, has been cleared of allegations that she unlawfully assaulted a parliamentary staff member during a protest on May 7, 2024. Initially charged with unlawful assault, the case took a dramatic turn when prosecutors withdrew the charge mid-hearing at the Melbourne Magistrates Court.
Gardiner had joined a group protesting for Palestine, which interrupted the Victorian Treasurer’s budget speech by chanting and displaying signs from the public gallery. As they were being removed, Gardiner allegedly attempted to push past two staff members blocking entry into the legislative chamber. It was claimed that during this altercation, she twisted and grabbed one worker’s breast.
The complainant, who remained unnamed, testified for several hours, describing the incident as painful and shocking. She expressed feelings of betrayal, saying, "My view was she broke the girl code and twisted my breast." The complainant admitted to raising her hands to prevent Gardiner from advancing, which coincided with the perceived assault.
Before the hearing resumed after lunch, Magistrate Malcolm Thomas suggested he could determine that an act of grabbing or twisting occurred. However, upon returning, the prosecutor requested to drop the assault charge without providing a reason. Gardiner’s legal representative, Angeline Centrone, indicated that her client would plead guilty to a lesser charge of failing to vacate a parliamentary area. Gardiner was clear to note her denial of the assault allegations but accepted responsibility for not leaving upon request.
Her lawyer argued for leniency, highlighting Gardiner’s good character and presenting her financial difficulties as an actor. The magistrate fined Gardiner $500 without a conviction, reflecting on the similarities in the struggles faced by both actors and barristers. Following the court’s proceedings, Gardiner stated to the media that, after two years of denying the assault charge, it felt vindicating to have the charges withdrawn. While acknowledging her guilty plea regarding the failure to leave, she affirmed her commitment to advocate for important causes, expressing, "I will continue to speak up for what I believe in." She declined to answer any further questions before leaving the courthouse.