Perth Magistrates’ Court.
Camera IconPerth Magistrates’ Court. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

WA treasurer’s ex-staffer fights charge

AAPEastern Reporter

A FORMER senior adviser to West Australian treasurer Ben Wyatt has pleaded not guilty to indecent assault following an incident at a ministerial Christmas party.

Stephen Kaless, 44, allegedly inappropriately touched a colleague, aged in her 20s, in the bar area of a Perth hotel last month.

Kaless entered his plea in Perth Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday.

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He will next front court on February 4.

Stephen Kaless, 44, allegedly inappropriately touched a colleague, aged in her 20s, in the bar area of a Perth hotel.
Camera IconStephen Kaless, 44, allegedly inappropriately touched a colleague, aged in her 20s, in the bar area of a Perth hotel. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Premier Mark McGowan previously described the incident as “unwelcome physical contact” with a female colleague.

“The Department of Premier and Cabinet was made aware of an incident at a staff Christmas function,” a government spokesperson said in December.

“The staff member involved was suspended indefinitely.

“That employee subsequently tendered his resignation.