Monique Ryan and Husband Caught in Political Sign Controversy
Politics in Kooyong has taken a dramatic turn as federal MP Monique Ryan and her husband, Peter Jordan, found themselves at the center of a signage scandal. A video surfaced showing Jordan removing a campaign sign supporting Liberal candidate Amelia Hamer, sparking a wave of controversy in what has already been a heated election battle.
The footage, captured in Camberwell, shows Jordan briskly walking away with the Hamer placard under his arm while being questioned by the person filming. When asked about his actions, Jordan justified it by claiming that the sign was illegally placed on public land. However, rather than reporting it to the local council, he took matters into his own hands—a decision he later admitted was a mistake.
“I unreservedly apologise for removing the sign,” Jordan said in a public statement. “It was a mistake. I believed the sign was illegally placed, but I should have reported my concerns to the council.” Ryan echoed his apology, acknowledging that the situation “should not have happened” and emphasizing that any concerns about signage should be handled through proper channels.
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The incident comes amid growing tensions over campaign signs in Kooyong, with multiple reports of defacement and vandalism on both sides. Videos have emerged showing Liberal signs being slashed and Ryan’s own posters being defaced with markers. In response, Ryan highlighted that over 130 of her campaign signs had been tampered with since January, with some cases even leading to property damage. She confirmed that Victoria Police were actively investigating incidents, with at least one case already pending before the Magistrates Court.
Liberal senator James Paterson was quick to condemn the act, calling out Ryan and her team for what he described as hypocrisy. “The teal politicians are the first and the loudest to preach integrity… but when they think no one is looking, they behave very differently,” he remarked. The Liberal Party has also reported additional instances of vandalism targeting their campaign materials, raising further concerns about the conduct of campaigners in this crucial election race.
Meanwhile, the Boroondara Council clarified that they do not proactively remove or monitor signage but do investigate reports from residents. Under local and state laws, campaign signs must not be placed on public property, including nature strips, but enforcement largely falls on councils rather than individuals taking direct action.
Despite the controversy, Ryan’s campaign continues to push forward. Just last Friday, she led a protest outside The Tower Hotel in Hawthorn East against a Liberal-backed advertisement claiming she voted with the Greens 77% of the time. Ryan dismissed the ad as misleading, stating that her record shows alignment with Labor on substantive legislation 70% of the time.
As election day approaches, this incident highlights the growing intensity of the battle for Kooyong. With tensions high and accusations flying, voters will ultimately decide who best represents integrity and leadership in their community. One thing is certain—the contest for Kooyong is anything but quiet.
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