NSW Liberals Reformers Used Illegal Donations for Bucks Night, 2026

Daniel Harrolds

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The NSW Liberals' Reformers group allegedly used illegal donations to pay for a bucks night, as revealed in the Icac corruption inquiry. This scandal highlights the misuse of political funds and raises serious questions about compliance and ethics in party financing.

Reformers' Financial Misconduct Exposed

Robert Assaf, a key member of the Reformers, admitted to temporarily using funds from the group's account to cover a bucks night. The inquiry heard that the group, which sought conservative policies on same-sex marriage, abortion, and euthanasia, engaged in branch stacking by soliciting illegal donations.

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The counsel assisting, Peggy Dwyer SC, pressed Assaf on the arrangement with prohibited donor Michael O'Hara, where payments were funneled through Beckington, a lobbying firm, to create tax benefits. Assaf acknowledged the arrangement was 'tricky' but denied knowing it was illegal at the time.

Key Details of the Icac Hearing

Assaf's testimony revealed that the group moved alleged payments from O'Hara to Beckington to maximize tax advantages. Dwyer challenged Assaf's explanation, suggesting it was an afterthought. Assaf admitted he now knows creating fake invoices to minimize tax is illegal.

In a WhatsApp message from August 2020, Jean-Claude Perrottet, brother of former premier Dominic Perrottet, wrote: 'Rob has the bucks cash coming back,' indicating the misuse of funds was known among members.

Comparison of Political Donation Rules

Aspect	NSW Liberal Reformers	Compliant Political Groups
Donation Source	Prohibited donor (Michael O'Hara)	Verified and legal donors
Use of Funds	Personal expenditure (bucks night)	Campaign and party activities
Tax Compliance	Fake invoices to minimize tax	Transparent reporting

Implications for Political Integrity

This case underscores the need for strict enforcement of donation laws and transparency in political financing. The Icac inquiry aims to uncover the full extent of the Reformers' activities and hold those responsible accountable.

Illegal donations undermine democratic processes.
Personal use of campaign funds is a serious breach of trust.
Tax evasion through fake invoices is criminal conduct.
Branch stacking distorts party membership and policy direction.

What This Means for the NSW Liberals

The scandal could damage the party's reputation and lead to reforms in how political donations are monitored. It also raises questions about the involvement of high-profile figures like Dominic Perrottet's brother.

As the inquiry continues, more evidence may emerge, potentially leading to charges and stricter regulations.

FAQ

What is branch stacking?

Branch stacking is the practice of recruiting or renewing party members to influence internal votes, often using illegal donations or incentives. It undermines democratic processes within political parties.

Who is Robert Assaf?

Robert Assaf is a member of the Reformers, a conservative faction within the NSW Liberals. He testified at the Icac inquiry about the group's financial misconduct, including using funds for a bucks night.

What are the penalties for illegal political donations?

Penalties vary by jurisdiction but can include fines, imprisonment, and disqualification from holding office. In NSW, the Icac can refer matters for prosecution, leading to severe consequences.

Author

Daniel Harrolds

With a career spanning four decades, Daniel is almost a library in the field of precious metals investing and Gold IRAs. His insightful strategies and pragmatic results-oriented approach make him a resource in safeguarding wealth, and financial foresight.

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