Yarra Mayor Stephen Jolly Charged with Assault Following Election Celebration Incident
Melbourne, VIC – Yarra City Council mayor Stephen Jolly has been charged with unlawful assault following an altercation at his election celebration event on November 1, 2024. The charge comes after footage of the incident circulated on social media and was verified by The Age.
The incident involves a group of at least three masked individuals who attended the celebration and allegedly made accusations against Jolly, the specifics of which The Age is legally restricted from reporting.A scuffle ensued after the group was asked to leave, with a female voice heard in the footage urging Jolly to stop. While the identities of the masked individuals and those who filmed and shared the video remain unconfirmed, the incident has prompted scrutiny of the mayor’s conduct and the implications for his position.
Jolly, a former Victorian Socialist who now serves as an independent councillor, described the group as “masked crazies” during a Wednesday appearance on 3AW radio. He added, “My lawyer will cut my fingers off if I say what I want to say,” indicating the sensitivity surrounding the matter.
The charge of unlawful assault carries a maximum penalty of three months’ imprisonment. Crucially, under the Local Government Act 2020, this offense does not qualify as a “serious offence,” meaning Jolly is not automatically suspended from his role as mayor and can continue to serve.
A spokesperson for Yarra Council stated the council would not be issuing a comment at this time. The outcome of the legal proceedings will determine whether further action is taken regarding Jolly’s position within the council.
