Alan Jones Faces Court Over 22 Sexual Assault Allegations

Former broadcaster Alan Jones has appeared in a Sydney local court to face a lengthy hearing over allegations he indecently assaulted multiple men during his decades as one of Australia's most prominent radio personalities.

The 85-year-old, who built a formidable public profile across more than three decades on Sydney's airwaves, has pleaded not guilty to 22 counts of indecent assault and sexual touching without consent. Monday marked the first day of what is expected to be a protracted local court proceeding — the first time the allegations will be fully tested before a magistrate.

Jones, who retired from radio in 2020 after a career spanning commercial broadcasting giants including 2GB, has consistently denied wrongdoing. His legal team is expected to mount a detailed defence as the matter proceeds through the local court system, where the magistrate will determine whether the charges warrant progression to a higher court.

The hearing is anticipated to run over multiple days given the volume and nature of the charges. Jones was not required to enter pleas again on Monday, with procedural matters set to guide the early stages of proceedings.

In a separate incident that has shaken Melbourne's western suburbs, an elderly shop worker remains in a critical condition in hospital after allegedly being attacked by a group of teenagers. Police were called to the scene after staff raised the alarm, and several youths have since been charged in connection with the assault.

The victim, whose age has not been formally confirmed by authorities, sustained serious injuries during the alleged attack. Investigators are continuing to gather evidence and have not ruled out further charges as the matter is examined by detectives from the local crime command.

The assault has prompted renewed concern from community leaders in Melbourne's west over youth violence in retail environments, with calls for stronger support for frontline workers in convenience and grocery stores. Local councillors have urged state authorities to review security measures and response protocols in small businesses where staff often work alone or in small numbers.

Both matters are expected to attract continued media attention throughout the week as court proceedings develop and police release further details.