Teal Candidate Nicolette Boele Apologises for Inappropriate Sexualised Joke to Teen Hairdresser

Teal candidate Nicolette Boele has issued an apology after making an inappropriate joke to a 19-year-old hairdresser in the electorate where she is campaigning, acknowledging that her remarks were a misguided attempt at humour.

The controversy threatens to impact Boele’s bid for the seat of Bradfield, a traditionally Liberal stronghold on Sydney’s north shore, which the party has held since its inception.

Incident Details- What Happened

The incident, first reported by Ben Fordham on Nine’s 2GB radio station, involved Boele allegedly telling a female hairdresser at the Envy Room salon in Gordon: “That was so good, and I didn’t even have sex with you,” following a hair wash.

As a result, the salon has banned Boele from returning to the premises.

Nicolette Boele Response

“It was a poor attempt at humour, and I have apologised,” Boele said in a statement. “Everyone deserves to feel respected in their workplace, and I will do better.”

The salon, located just 50 metres from Boele’s campaign office on the Pacific Highway, declined to comment on the matter.

Electoral Impact

Nicolette Boele, a former renewable energy policy champion supported by Climate 200, came close to defeating former Communications Minister Paul Fletcher in the 2022 elections. Since Fletcher announced his retirement last year, the race has grown more competitive, with Gisele Kapterian, the new Liberal contender, holding a small 2.5% lead.

Bradfield, which includes affluent suburbs such as Chatswood and Pymble, is expected to see a closely fought race. Kapterian, a former trade lawyer and Liberal Party staffer, was initially the party’s candidate for North Sydney before the Australian Electoral Commission abolished the seat.

Salon’s Stance

Envy Room staff have declined to comment further on the incident.