One Nation Victoria leader Warren Pickering says he has previously used illegal drugs, acknowledging mistakes from his 20s. Multiple outlets report he listed drugs including speed, amphetamines, ecstasy, and marijuana. The admission follows reports in The Australian and comes after allegations made by an ex-partner.
Several sources add that Pickering discusses his past driving record, including having his licence removed multiple times for drink-driving, and says he has not used illicit drugs for at least 16 years. The Guardian reports he denies claims from his ex-partner that he used “ice” (crystal meth) in front of children and says he is considering legal action against The Australian. Reporting also notes some outlets, including ABC and Guardian, were barred from attending his press conference.
Across coverage, outlets agree on the core admission of past drug use and that Pickering frames it as historical. They differ mainly on emphasis—some focus on the specific drugs named, while others highlight the drink-driving history and the dispute over the additional “ice” allegation.
