Alan Jones faces historic sexual offence charges spanning two decades

Alan Jones, a prominent Australian broadcaster and former rugby coach, has been charged with multiple sexual offences allegedly committed between 2001 and 2019.

New South Wales (NSW) Police announced that Jones faces 24 charges involving eight alleged victims. These charges include 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault and nine counts of assault with an act of indecency.

The accused, identified as an 83-year-old man, was arrested at a property in Circular Quay, Sydney.

Investigation and Police Remarks

Assistant Commissioner Michael Fitzgerald of NSW Police commended the investigative team for their persistence. “Historical matters such as this are incredibly hard to investigate and bring before the courts,” he said, adding that the inquiry would continue.

Police allege that Jones knew some of the alleged victims through personal or professional connections.

A Storied Career

Jones is a household name in Australia, known for his influential and often controversial media presence. His broadcasting career spans decades, with stints on radio stations 2GB and 2UE and later on Sky News.

In November 2023, Jones last hosted a show on the streaming platform ADH TV, which he joined after leaving Sky News in 2021.

Before transitioning to media, Jones had careers in teaching and politics, serving as an adviser to former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser in the late 1970s. He also achieved significant success as head coach of the Australian men’s rugby union team from 1984 to 1988, leading the team to an impressive 86 wins in 102 matches, including a celebrated "grand slam" against the UK and Ireland teams.

Previous Allegations

The charges come after allegations surfaced in December, when a Sydney Morning Herald investigation accused Jones of indecent behavior and inappropriate conduct towards young men.

At the time, Jones strongly denied the claims, with his lawyer labeling them as “scandalous, grossly offensive, and seriously defamatory of him.”

The case is ongoing, with authorities continuing their investigation into the allegations.