Lidia Jelena Kukulj: Liberal Party hopeful, Instagram star accused of child sex crimes

A Perth influencer with political aspirations has been arrested on serious child sex charges. Lidia Jelena Kukulj ran for Liberal pre-selection in Scarborough ahead of the March State election, but was overlooked in favour of corporate advisor and Army reservist Damien Kelly — who fell fewer than 3000 votes short of ousting Labor MP Stuart Aubrey. The West Australian can reveal that Ms Kukulj faced court two weeks ago, charged with two counts of sexual penetration of a child under 13 and four counts of indecent dealing. In court, Magistrate Clare Cullen raised concerns about whether Ms Kukulj was a flight risk. “There’s been comment, your honour, about significant social media following, and overseas and interstate travel,” the prosecutor said in response. “The accused boasted about the number of social media followers she has, strong ties to the Liberal Party, close relationships and numerous travel overseas.” A self-proclaimed advocate against domestic violence, and a human rights law student, Ms Kukulj has 26,000 followers on Instagram where she has posted photos and video outside State Parliament, as well as spruiking recipe and fashion tips and sponsored posts. Magistrate Cullen ordered Ms Kukulj to surrender her passport within 48 hours and adjourned the case for six weeks. Bail was not opposed by the prosecutor and was granted, under conditions including a $2000 personal undertaking and a $10,000 surety. Ms Kukulj was not required to enter a plea, but was given a stern warning. “That’s money that can be forfeited if you don’t attend court on the next occasion,” Magsitrate Cullen said. “At the moment, I’m being told there might be some concerns with flights. “You must not be within 1km of any interstate or international point of departure, whether by road, rail, sea or air, and you shall not attempt to purchase a ticket for travel outside WA.” In a YouTube video posted last year, Ms Kukulj appealed for Liberal party members to support her pre-selection bid. “My roots run deep in this community, as do Liberal values,” she said. “Here I am, ready to protect families . . . The time has come for fresh, new determined leadership. As a people person, and a natural born leader, I have always had an interest in politics and community. “I am ready, I am here for the community, I am here for the party and I am here for you.”