The Liberal Party branch stacking scandal has been laid bare in a stunning ICAC inquiry, with secret tape recordings revealing developers boasting of their influence over the state government. The Operation Rosny investigation into alleged Electoral Funding Act offences has exposed a web of payments and political manipulation orchestrated by a group known as the Reformers.
The Secret Tape Recordings
On the first day of the inquiry, counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer SC presented horrifying evidence. Secret recordings captured developer Jean Nassif, now a fugitive in Lebanon, boasting that he had “my hands on the state government” and had “fucked” a state politician by “taking his seat”. In one call, Nassif referred to then-Premier Gladys Berejiklian as a “fucking bitch” and discussed plans to “change her”.
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These tapes were not mere idle boasts. Shortly after the calls, Baulkham Hills MP David Elliott lost his preselection, and the minister responsible for the building commissioner was replaced. Building Commissioner David Chandler resigned under enormous pressure, exactly as Nassif had threatened.
The Role of the Reformers
The Reformers, as the group is called, included two brothers of former NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet – Jean-Claude and Charles – along with PR firm principals Christian Ellis and Jeremy Greenwood. Dwyer alleges these operatives ran a major branch stacking operation to take over the Liberal Party and promote a conservative agenda while delivering outcomes for their benefactor Nassif.
Key Allegations at a Glance
| Allegation | Details |
|---|---|
| Branch Stacking | Systematic recruitment of members to stack branches in favour of the Reformers’ faction |
| Sham Payments | Millions from Nassif funneled through consultancy fees to the Reformers |
| Political Interference | Direct attempts to remove sitting MPs and officials like David Chandler |
| Electoral Funding Act Violations | Possible offences under NSW electoral law |
Impact on NSW Government
The scandal raises serious questions about the integrity of the Liberal Party and the state’s political system. The tapes show a level of corruption that goes beyond typical factional games, with real consequences for elected officials and public servants. The ICAC inquiry will continue to examine whether the Electoral Funding Act was broken and what further actions may be taken.
- Secret recordings reveal developer Jean Nassif’s influence over government decisions.
- Branch stacking by the Reformers sought to control party preselections.
- Allegations include sham payments and threats to state officials.
- The inquiry highlights the need for stronger political donation and disclosure laws.
FAQ
What is branch stacking in politics?
Branch stacking is the practice of recruiting party members to join a specific branch in order to influence internal elections, such as preselection of candidates. It is often seen as a form of political manipulation and can violate party rules or electoral laws.
Who is Jean Nassif?
Jean Nassif is a Lebanese-Australian property developer who is a central figure in the ICAC Operation Rosny inquiry. He is currently a fugitive in Lebanon and is alleged to have paid millions to influence Liberal Party operatives.
What is the ICAC inquiry investigating?
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is investigating possible offences under the NSW Electoral Funding Act, including allegations of branch stacking, sham payments, and undue influence on government decisions by developers.
The revelations from the ICAC inquiry underscore the deep rot within the Liberal Party’s internal processes. As the hearings continue, more details are expected to emerge about the extent of the scandal and its implications for future elections. Stay tuned for updates on this ongoing story.
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