Former Labor MP Jimmy Sullivan, now an independent member representing Stafford, faces a tumultuous period in state parliament following his expulsion from the Labor Party. His removal stemmed from health and personal matters, particularly a violation of a return-to-work plan. As Sullivan sits on the crossbench, the Labor Party is in the process of selecting a new candidate for the Stafford seat in the upcoming elections, reflecting the party’s intent to distance itself from him after his controversial exit.
During a heated question time, tensions escalated when Sullivan took offense at remarks made by Housing Minister Sam O’Connor. This prompted Speaker Pat Weir to intervene and ask O’Connor to retract his statements. Earlier, Premier David Crisafulli subtly referenced Sullivan while responding to Opposition Leader Steven Miles, indicating the ongoing discord between Sullivan and his former party. Meanwhile, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie orchestrated a series of questions from LNP backbenchers aimed directly at Sullivan, showcasing a strategic effort to capitalize on the situation.
Bleijie specifically targeted Sullivan’s alleged breach of conduct, claiming it was due to Sullivan having a beer on Labor Day. This accusation underscored the LNP’s attempt to portray Labor as hypocritical, particularly in light of their calls for reforms regarding character references in sentencing. He criticized the opposition for maintaining secrecy about Sullivan’s issues for an extended period before ultimately deciding to sever ties with him without providing clear explanations.
In a further move to challenge Sullivan, members of the LNP, including three ministers, arranged for “Dorothy Dixer” questions designed to highlight perceived failings of both Sullivan and the Labor Party. These orchestrated queries accentuated the ongoing animosity and strategic maneuvering within parliament. When Sullivan deemed one of these statements as “absolutely irrelevant and offensive,” the Speaker once again had to intervene, reflecting the increasingly fraught atmosphere in the chamber.
The political dynamics surrounding Sullivan’s presence as an independent member reveal broader tensions within the parliament, particularly between the LNP and Labor. Sullivan’s situation is emblematic of a perception of secrecy and political gamesmanship that both parties seem to engage in while navigating the complexities of governance. The accusations and counteraccusations add another layer of intrigue, drawing public attention to the often turbulent and combative nature of state politics.
As Sullivan continues his tenure on the crossbench, the ramifications of his expulsion will likely reverberate throughout future debates and legislative sessions. The Labor Party’s decision to pursue a new candidate for Stafford signals a clear break, while Sullivan’s independent status may present new challenges and opportunities in the evolving political landscape. The ongoing exchanges in parliament tonight demonstrate that while Sullivan may have been sidelined, the implications of his expulsion are far from settled.
