The Icac bombshell that hit Damien Tudehope involves a leaked parliamentary report, shaking NSW politics to its core. This scandal, centered on Operation Rosny, has raised serious questions about political conduct and integrity.
What Happened in the Icac Hearing?
On Tuesday afternoon, former finance minister Damien Tudehope was confronted with an email he sent in February 2023, attaching a leaked draft parliamentary report. The report concerned branch stacking in the Hills area by the Reformers, a shadowy group at the center of Icac's investigation.
Counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer SC asked Tudehope if he considered himself bound by confidentiality. He visibly tensed and admitted, "It appears that I did." This admission has imperiled his parliamentary career, leading to his stand-down as shadow attorney general.
The Reformers and Their Influence
The Reformers are a group of conservative Catholic men who recruited like-minded individuals to take over Liberal party branches. Key figures, including Jeremy Greenwood, Christian Ellis, and the Perrottet brothers, had left NSW to avoid parliamentary inquiry in 2023.
Tudehope revealed he had a conversation with Premier Dom Perrottet, who knew his brother had gone to Fiji. This connection suggests a deeper involvement in the Reformers' activities than previously known.
Why Is Leaking a Draft Report Serious?
Leaking a draft parliamentary report is a breach of parliamentary rules and could constitute contempt of parliament. Depending on motivation, it may even be considered corrupt conduct under Icac's jurisdiction.
The leak raises questions about how tightly Tudehope was tied to the Reformers and their alleged fundraising for branch takeover. This scandal could have lasting effects on his political career and the Liberal party's reputation.
Key Takeaways from the Scandal
- Icac bombshell revealed a leaked report sent by Tudehope.
- Admission of sending the report came late in his examination.
- Operation Rosny investigates branch stacking and donations.
- Tudehope has stepped down from his shadow ministry role.
Comparison: Past Icac Cases vs. Operation Rosny
| Aspect | Past Icac Cases | Operation Rosny |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Corruption in public office | Branch stacking and political donations |
| Key Evidence | Financial records, witness testimony | Leaked documents, email trails |
| Outcome | Findings of corrupt conduct | Ongoing investigation |
Impact on NSW Politics
This scandal has sent shockwaves through the Liberal party, especially among moderates and centrists. Tudehope's fall from grace highlights the dangers of political factionalism and the importance of transparency.
The Icac bombshell may lead to further investigations and potential reforms in how parliamentary reports are handled. For now, all eyes are on Tudehope and the Reformers as the inquiry continues.
FAQ
What is Operation Rosny?
Why did Tudehope leak the report?
What are the consequences for Tudehope?
Best Products We’ve Tested and Rated

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of winter gloves letter carriers, stash bags, snow boots walkers, shoes pacific crest trail, and over helmet ski hood. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.
Our testing team has hands-on reviews of ice climbing rope, low cut shoes, heated boots, cooler sup seat, and backpack philmont. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.