Alan Jones Trial Begins: Indecent Assault and Sexual Touching 2026

The Alan Jones trial on indecent assault and sexual touching charges has commenced in Sydney’s Downing Centre local court, marking a significant legal proceeding for the former broadcaster. The judge-alone trial, expected to run for four months, will hear from 76 witnesses and involve six complainants alleging offenses between 2003 and 2020.

Overview of the Charges Against Alan Jones

Jones, 85, faces 22 charges, including 20 counts of indecent assault and two counts of sexual touching. The charges stem from alleged incidents involving six complainants, with the youngest being 17 at the time of the alleged offending. The court has been told that in 2018, the offense of indecent assault was replaced by sexual touching, which carries a maximum penalty of five years’ imprisonment.

Key Legal Proceedings and Media Rulings

On Friday, Judge Glenn Walsh rejected a defense attempt to prevent media reporting of complainants’ evidence. Jones’s barrister, Claire O’Neill, argued that in-camera evidence should not be published under the Criminal Procedure Act. However, Walsh ruled that in-camera did not equate to a non-publication or suppression order, noting that Complainant J was not opposed to media coverage.

Complainant J’s Testimony and Anonymity

Complainant J, whose case accounts for nine of the 22 charges, is giving evidence in camera. The complainant, anonymized to protect privacy, told police he met Jones as a young man and received a mobile phone from the then-2GB breakfast host. Jones allegedly invited him to his Macquarie Street apartment, where he put his arms around Complainant J, gave him a “squeeze” and a “peck” on the mouth, and said “I love you.”

Comparison of Legal Offenses

Key Takeaways from the Trial

• The trial is expected to last four months with 76 witnesses.
• Six complainants are involved, with the youngest being 17 at the time of alleged offenses.
• Judge-alone trial means no jury; Judge Glenn Walsh will deliver the verdict.
• Media reporting of complainant evidence is permitted, despite defense objections.
• Complainant J’s testimony is being heard in camera but can be reported.

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