Labour MP Darren Cheeseman Asked to Resign Over Workplace Misconduct Allegations

South Barwon Labor MP Darren Cheeseman has been requested by Premier Jacinta Allan to step down from his position as a parliamentary secretary following accusations of inappropriate behavior in the workplace.

The Premier’s decision came after reports of alleged persistent and inappropriate conduct towards staff, though specific details were not initially disclosed.

According to government sources speaking anonymously, the allegations against Cheeseman reportedly involved making sexual comments towards a staff member but did not involve any physical contact.

Cheeseman, a former federal MP who transitioned to state politics in 2018, has yet to issue a response to the allegations.

Jacinta Allan stated that Cheeseman had agreed to resign from his role as a parliamentary secretary but would continue to hold his position within the Labor caucus and the broader party.

Ministers and parliamentary secretaries are mandated to adhere to the highest standards of personal conduct, maintaining respectful and appropriate working relationships with staff, colleagues, and the broader community, according to the Premier’s statement.

In a similar incident last year, Ringwood MP Will Fowles was also asked to resign from the parliamentary Labor Party over alleged misconduct, although no charges were laid following a police investigation.

Despite the accusations, Fowles was not found guilty but currently functions as an independent MP.

Cheeseman, previously parliamentary secretary for the Commonwealth Games before their cancellation, transitioned to the education portfolio in October.

Parliamentary secretaries like Cheeseman assist cabinet ministers with their portfolio responsibilities.

Cheeseman’s attendance at regional caucus meetings has reportedly been inconsistent, with observations labeling him as one of the most vocal hecklers of the opposition during parliamentary sessions.

The Labour MP has been a prominent figure in South Barwon since his election in 2018, following his tenure in the federal seat of Corangamite from 2007 to 2013.

Both the Premier’s office and Cheeseman have been contacted for further comments or responses regarding the allegations.