Dawkins to plead his case as Liberal expulsion looms

SA Legislative Council president John Dawkins has written to the Liberal Party’s state executive ahead of a meeting tonight that could determine whether he is booted out of the party.

Nov 16, 2020, updated May 15, 2025
John Dawkins. Photo: Tony Lewis/InDaily
John Dawkins. Photo: Tony Lewis/InDaily

Dawkins has been invited to plead his case at the meeting, after the state party-room in September unanimously determined to ask for his membership to be revoked.

That followed his shock move to successfully stand for the Upper House presidency against the party’s endorsed nominee, Jing Lee.

It’s understood Dawkins has already pleaded his case in a letter sent to members of the state executive, control of which shifted to the party’s moderate faction after September’s AGM.

Sources have suggested the letter emphasises Dawkins’ long service to the Liberal party, including 23 years as an MLC and 16 years as Upper House whip.

He is also expected to address the meeting tonight, telling InDaily: “I’ve been asked to attend or send a letter and I’ve opted to do both.”

“The process from there is up to state executive,” he said.

Newly-elected president Legh Davis declined to comment when contacted by InDaily.

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