BREAKING: South Australian MP Nick McBride has been denied bail and will remain in custody following serious domestic violence allegations. The 56-year-old was arrested on Saturday, charged with aggravated assault against a woman known to him, and appeared remotely at the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Monday.
The court’s ruling comes after McBride’s legal team requested his release for “special reasons.” However, Magistrate Melanie Burton highlighted recent changes to the Bail Act, establishing a presumption against bail for individuals facing such allegations. McBride’s attorney, Jane Abbey KC, acknowledged the gravity of the charges, which include a total of six counts of aggravated assault stemming from incidents in April and October.
During the court session, McBride, wearing a white shirt and beige shorts, displayed a subdued demeanor, only confirming his identity and his ability to follow the proceedings. The prosecution has indicated it will respond to the bail application during a court date scheduled for January 6, when a report on McBride’s eligibility for home detention will also be presented.
UPDATE: Premier Peter Malinauskas described the allegations against McBride as “stunning,” echoing a sentiment of disbelief shared by the public and political figures alike. Opposition Leader Ashton Hurn referred to the situation as “incredibly concerning.”
McBride previously held the safe Liberal seat of MacKillop since 2018 before leaving the party in 2023 to sit as an independent. His family has longstanding ties to the region, operating Conmurra Station since the 1930s. He has voiced intentions to run for his seat again in the upcoming state election in March.
As this story develops, many are closely monitoring the implications of the court’s decisions and the ongoing legal proceedings. McBride’s next court appearance is set for January 30, where he will face the six charges of aggravated assault. The urgency surrounding this case has sparked intense discussion across South Australia, raising questions about accountability and the treatment of domestic violence allegations in political spheres.
Stay tuned for more updates as this situation unfolds.
