Victorian One Nation leader Warren Pickering has admitted to using a range of illicit drugs during his 20s, including ecstasy, methamphetamines, speed, and marijuana. He also confirmed that he lost his driver's license on multiple occasions due to drink driving. However, he denied allegations made by his ex-partner, published in The Australian, that he smoked crystal meth — commonly known as "ice" — in front of children. Pickering said he was considering legal action against the publication following a press conference held on Tuesday. During the press conference, Pickering was accompanied by James Ashby, One Nation's national director, as well as his daughter and stepson. He described his younger self as "no angel" and acknowledged drug use during that time, but clarified that he never considered himself a drug addict. "I did use them ... as a young man and I'm not proud of that," he said, listing the substances he had used but denying any use of ice or smoking it in the presence of his children. When asked directly, he said, "No, I did not." Pickering also confirmed that he had lost his driver's license three times — first at 18, then at 20, and again a decade later for what he described as "low-level drink driving." He acknowledged that these actions "hurt people I loved" and said he would "live with that forever." However, he claimed he has since made significant life changes, including becoming clean, joining the Australian Defence Force, and finding a sense of purpose. He said these experiences inspired him to enter politics and serve the community in a new way after his military service. James Ashby addressed claims made by The Australian, referencing a handwritten note from Pickering that mentioned "sexual deviance." He explained that the note was related to the couple's open relationship, which included a third person, and that Pickering was also exploring his own sexuality at the time. Pickering said he was working with his legal team to have the published stories removed and was considering defamation action. While The Australian was allowed to attend the press conference, reporters from Guardian Australia and the ABC were asked to leave after identifying their media outlets.