Prosecutors have withdrawn four charges against Australian broadcaster Alan Jones just weeks before he was due to stand trial, marking a significant development in the long-running sexual abuse case against him. The move alters the scope of the prosecution ahead of proceedings in a Sydney court, though the case against Jones is continuing on the remaining charges.

Jones, a prominent radio and media figure, has pleaded not guilty to the allegations he faces. The withdrawal of four charges does not end the legal proceedings, with the trial still set to go ahead on the outstanding counts, but it represents a notable shift in the case shortly before it was due to be heard.