Senior counsel Sophie Callan appointed to prosecute MP Luke Gosling on assault charges
Sydney barrister Sophie Callan SC will lead the prosecution of federal Labor MP Luke Gosling, who faces two assault counts and a bail breach.
The Northern Territory Director of Public Prosecutions engaged Sydney-based senior counsel Sophie Callan SC to prosecute federal Labor MP Luke Gosling on two assault charges involving NT Administrator David Connolly at the NT Thai Grand Festival. The appointment follows a decision by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions to decline involvement, citing a potential conflict of interest. Gosling also faces a separate charge for breaching bail after an alleged incident on August 14, which has led him to relinquish his special envoy portfolio for defence, veterans' affairs and northern Australia.
He maintains his innocence and plans to contest both assault counts. The case is scheduled to return to Darwin Local Court, where bail conditions restrict Gosling's proximity to NT Government House and require advance notice before attending events with the administrator.
Why it matters
The case tests legal independence and could affect the MP's political standing and government credibility.
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