- Labor party staffer Steven Michelson resigned from his role on Sunday night
- The adviser’s departure comes as a picture of him in blackface was released
- A factional enemy dispersed the image of him with his face painted black
- Mr Michelson has since admitted the picture was a ‘terrible decision’
- Father-of-two said his departure was based on spending more time with family
A long-time adviser for Labor party leader Bill Shorten has resigned from his position after a picture of the staffer in ‘blackface’ was released.
Steven Michelson, who has worked for Mr Shorten for nearly six years, suddenly resigned on Sunday night and announced his decision to friends and family on Facebook.
His decision comes after a factional enemy dispersed an image of Mr Michelson wearing black paint on his face and a curly ‘afro’ wig, according to The Australian.
Steven Michelson (right), a long-time adviser for Australian Labor Party leader Bill Shorten, resigned from his position on Sunday after a picture of the staffer in ‘blackface’ was released
Mr Michelson (pictured with his partner), who has worked for Mr Shorten for nearly six years, suddenly resigned over the weekend, announcing his decision to friends and family on Facebook
Mr Michelson, who shares two children with his partner, told the publication he had made a ‘terrible decision’, but said his departure was based on spending more time with his family.
‘I was young when this photo was taken and made a terrible decision,’ he said.
‘In the more than 10 years since then I’ve learnt why this type of behaviour is completely inappropriate.’
In a Facebook post announcing his resignation, Mr Michelson said ‘working with Bill Shorten and the entire Labor team has truly been a privilege’ but it was time ‘for two little kids to see a bit more of their Dad.’
Mr Michelson said he will continued to support the Labor party and his former boss.
He also revealed he will still letterbox drop and work at Labor information stalls, the Australian reported.
In a Facebook post announcing his resignation, Mr Michelson said ‘working with Bill Shorten (pictured) and the entire Labor team has truly been a privilege’