FORMER MP SAYS HOME DETENTION WAS SO TOUGH HE UNDERSTANDS WHY SOME PEOPLE WOULD RATHER GO BACK TO JAIL

Former South Australian MP Nick McBride, 57, has won a partial easing of his strict home detention bail conditions while he continues to fight allegations that he assaulted his estranged wife.

McBride appeared before the Adelaide Magistrates Court on Wednesday seeking changes to the conditions that have restricted his movements since he was released from custody. The court agreed to several requests, including allowing him to exercise outdoors and travel to Robe on approved passes. A restriction preventing him from consuming alcohol was also lifted.

But one major restriction remains.

McBride is still prohibited from entering licensed premises.

The former independent MP said the original conditions had been extremely difficult to live under, telling reporters that they were “really, really tough.” He went even further, saying he could understand why people in similar circumstances might consider returning to jail because, in some ways, it could be easier than dealing with the strict rules of home detention.

McBride is facing aggravated assault allegations involving his estranged wife, as well as allegations of breaching bail. He has not entered pleas to the current charges and has consistently denied the allegations. Earlier this year, the court granted him home detention bail after he spent 10 days in custody, with an ankle monitor and strict restrictions on his movements.

His lawyer argued that the restrictions were also making it difficult for McBride to find work. The former MP has been working as a welder since losing his seat in the March 2026 state election, but his legal team told the court that restrictions on entering licensed venues could make certain employment opportunities and work-related meetings difficult.

Outside court, McBride made it clear that he does not intend to simply accept the allegations against him.

He said that admitting guilt would make things easier, but insisted that he would continue through the legal process in an effort to clear his name and be regarded as innocent rather than guilty.

The case has already had a dramatic impact on the former politician’s life. Earlier in 2026, McBride was campaigning for re-election while wearing an ankle bracelet and having his movements monitored under his bail conditions. He ultimately lost his seat in the March election.

Now, with his bail conditions partially relaxed, McBride will continue working while preparing for the next stage of his legal battle.

But the biggest question remains: what exactly happened between McBride and his estranged wife, and what will ultimately happen when the allegations reach the next stage in court?

Read the full story for the latest courtroom developments and the surprising comments McBride made about his home detention conditions.

Source: ABC News — Full Story