The short version
- A former household manager testified that Alan Jones greeted a prominent athlete with physical contact including hugs and slaps on the buttocks.
- The witness described an intense work environment at the broadcaster’s Sydney apartment, noting frequent visits from various sports personalities.
- Jones maintains his innocence regarding twenty-one charges of indecent assault and sexual touching currently being heard in court.
The trial of Australian media personality Alan Jones entered its eighth week with testimony from a former employee who described the broadcaster’s interactions with guests at his Sydney residence. David Allan, who served as Jones’s butler for nearly two decades, told the Downing Centre court that Jones would welcome a prominent athlete with a hug and a slap on the bottom. The witness also noted that Jones addressed the visitor as 'champion' during these encounters.
Allan provided details about his role within the household, stating he worked closely with Jones from the early 2000s until August 2019. He described managing domestic tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and ironing clothing, including undergarments and socks. The witness characterized the work schedule as demanding, noting that Jones attempted to function on minimal sleep while maintaining a rigorous routine.
The testimony focused partly on visits from sports figures, with Allan recalling eight or nine occasions when the specific athlete in question came to the apartment. He stated that many athletes visited the home over the years, including cricketers and swimmers. The witness confirmed seeing Jones with several young male athletes between 2003 and 2005, describing a total of about half a dozen such visitors during that period.
Prosecutor Georgina Wright questioned Allan about how Jones greeted the athlete known in court as complainant M. Allan described the greeting as consistent with behaviors he observed among sports people generally. He recounted that Jones would say 'Hello, champion' before they sat down to talk. When asked if he used the phrase 'slap on the bottom,' Allan remarked that it might be considered inappropriate terminology today.
The defense cross-examined Allan regarding whether he witnessed any inappropriate behavior by Jones toward male athletes between 2003 and 2006. The witness had previously stated that he referred to his employer as Sir or Mr Jones, while others used nicknames like AJ or Alan. He clarified that he did not eat meals with Jones but remained nearby serving food or working in the kitchen during gatherings.
Allan also shared memories of his initial interview for the position, recalling a conversation about preparing sandwiches and whether to include crusts. He described how his culinary skills led to increased responsibilities, eventually hosting guests for lunch, dinner, Sunday roasts, and weekend breakfasts when Jones was not broadcasting. The witness emphasized the hard and brutal nature of the work regime under Jones.
The case involves twenty-one charges of indecent assault and sexual touching against Jones, who has pleaded not guilty to all counts. Two of these charges specifically involve the athlete referred to as complainant M. That individual previously testified that Jones greeted him with hugs and kisses on the cheek, using flattering language such as 'beautiful man.' The current testimony adds another layer to the court’s understanding of their interactions.
Judge Glenn Walsh is overseeing the proceedings as the trial continues. The evidence presented so far highlights the contrast between the formal domestic structure maintained by Allan and the social dynamics involving Jones’s guests. The court remains focused on determining whether the physical contact described constitutes criminal conduct under Australian law.
The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for how historical allegations against public figures are adjudicated in Australia. As more witnesses testify, the jury will weigh accounts of everyday hospitality against serious criminal accusations. The legal process continues to unfold without speculation about guilt or innocence beyond the established facts presented in court.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- The Guardian World↗Alan Jones welcomed prominent athlete to luxury home with ‘hug and slap on the bottom’, former butler tells court
