NSW Nationals MP Michael Johnsen resigns from government after identifying himself as politician accused of raping sex worker

ASSA | 2021-03-25 09:48:59

Nationals MP Michael Johnsen has officially resigned from the NSW Government after he identified himself as the politician accused of sexually assaulting a sex worker.

Nationals leader and Deputy NSW Premier John Barilaro said this morning that he had sought Mr Johnsen's resignation and he had tendered it.

It came after NSW Police yesterday confirmed they are investigating allegations revealed in Parliament that a male MP in the Berejiklian government sexually assaulted a sex worker in September 2019.

"In light of the police investigation and upon learning of allegations against the Member for Upper Hunter Michael Johnsen, I sought Mr Johnsen's resignation from his role as Parliamentary Secretary and he duly resigned," Mr Barilaro said in a statement.

Mr Johnsen will also no longer sit in Nationals party room nor the Coalition Joint Party Room while the police investigation is underway.

Mr Johnsen said he is "an innocent party" after details were revealed today in Parliament.

Mr Johnsen released a statement last night saying "I am devastated by these allegations".

Government NSW