Victorian Greens co-MP Sam Hibbins has announced he is leaving the party after admitting having a consensual relationship with a staff member.
The father-of-two, 42, posted a statement on social media on Friday saying the “short” relationship had broken party room rules.
The Prahan MP said the relationship had ended some time ago and he would now focus on “making peace” and his “beautiful family”.
“I have had a consensual relationship with a member of my office staff,” he said.
‘I recognize this was a significant error of judgment and I understand the distress this has caused. This brief relationship ended some time ago, but it violates the rules of our party room.
‘I accept the consequences of my decisions that affect my personal and professional life. I am working to make peace with the most important people in my life, my family and our community.
‘I am deeply sorry for what has happened. “I have made a very human error, but I am working to find the best path forward.”
Hibbins, who has held the seat of Prahan in Melbourne’s southeast since 2014, will continue to sit on the crossbench as an independent.
Victorian Greens co-MP Sam Hibbins (pictured) has announced he is leaving the party after admitting having a consensual relationship with a staff member.
“I have always worked hard to promote the Greens’ cause and I know this is a distraction from my work and the work of the Greens, but I remain committed to serving my Prahran electorate,” his statement continued.
‘I leave the party room with good will towards my Green colleagues. They are doing a fantastic job. I wish you the best in the future.”
In March, Hibbins wished his “incredible, beautiful” wife a happy 40th birthday in a now-deleted post on his social media.
The following month, the MP became a co-MP for the Greens after former leader Samantha Ratnam announced she would be leaving state politics.
More to come.