Media reports on Wednesday revealed the state's Labor Party was investigating allegations of inappropriate behaviour by Mr O'Byrne when he was head of the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union.

It was understood he sent sexual text messages, and kissed a woman without her consent.

Responding to the accusations on Wednesday afternoon, the newly-elected leader said he initially believed the exchanges between himself and the employee were consensual.

"While I have not yet received a copy of the complaint I believe it necessary to publicly respond to some of the matters reported today," Mr O'Byrne said.

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"I acknowledge my behaviour did not meet the standards I would expect of myself. I also acknowledge I have let down my wife and my family.

"At the time of the reported events I genuinely believed the kiss and text exchanges to be consensual. However, I now understand that this was no the case.

"I have written to her to offer my unreserved apology for the unwanted contact and texts. I genuinely thank her for having the strength to bring this issue to light and I also thank other women who have advocated and spoken about their personal experiences to inform the current national conversation about consent."

Mr O'Byrne will stand down until the investigation is complete.

Anita Dow will take over as acting leader.

It comes just two weeks after Mr O'Byrne defeated Braddon MHA Shane Broad in a leadership ballot, with Mr O'Byrne receiving 74 per cent of party member votes. The leadership was vacated by former leader Rebecca White in the wake of the party's May election defeat.

Tasmanian Greens leader Cassy O'Connor said it would have taken courage for the individual to come forward with the allegation.

"Particularly when you are making an allegation about someone who is a position authority and who is a public figure," she said.

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"All over Tasmania, women will be noting this courage and hopefully being inspired by it."

Ms O'Connor said Ms Dow should replace Mr O'Byrne on the workplace practices and procedures committee.

When asked about the allegations earlier today, Premier Peter Gutwein said the leader of opposition would be expected to provide an explanation.

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"If there are matters that have been raised and allegations raised, as a member of parliament, I think it's incumbent upon the member that they're raised against to provide an explanation," he said.

"These sorts of things are always a surprise. But as I've said, and I've made the point on many occasions around these sorts of matters, I'm not judge, jury or executioner. I need to take advice."

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