Liberal Operative's 'Silly' Wire Comment Revealed at Icac Hearing 2026

The Icac hearing into alleged political corruption in New South Wales has heard that Liberal operative Jeremy Greenwood described a request to be fitted with a wire before a meeting as a “silly comment”. The inquiry is examining whether Greenwood, Charles Perrottet, and Christian Ellis shared in $2 million in payments from fugitive developer Jean Nassif or his company Toplace in exchange for political outcomes.

Background of the Icac Investigation

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) is investigating allegations that the three men received payments between 2020 and 2023 from Jean Nassif or Toplace. In return, they allegedly worked to remove the building commissioner, David Chandler, and damage the career of former NSW Liberal minister David Elliott.

Jeremy Greenwood, a factional figure, has denied any wrongdoing. He told the commission that his message to Toplace executive Sharangan Maheswaran about being “wired for sound” was just a joke. “It was just a silly comment,” he said on Wednesday.

Key Figures in the Case

The inquiry has heard evidence from several individuals, but the main figures are:

• Jeremy Greenwood – Liberal operative, denies taking illegal donations.
• Charles Perrottet – Brother of former premier Dominic Perrottet, also denies wrongdoing.
• Christian Ellis – Overseas, not expected to give evidence.
• Jean Nassif – Fugitive developer, alleged source of payments.

The “Wire” Comment and Its Context

Greenwood was asked about a message he sent to Maheswaran ahead of a meeting with Liberal figures. The message read: “Can I get Shane to wire me for sound tomorrow, a…” Greenwood explained that this referred to a recording device, but he claimed it was not a serious request.

“It was just a silly comment,” he told the commission. “I don’t recall any plan to use a wire.”

Allegations of a Negative Documentary

The inquiry also heard about a plan to have YouTuber FriendlyJordies produce a negative documentary about David Elliott. Greenwood said he could not recall such a plan, but the commission is investigating whether the payments were linked to this and other political attacks.

Comparison of Testimonies and Evidence

The table below summarizes the positions of the key individuals involved:

Political Reactions and Implications

The Icac hearing has drawn significant attention, as it involves senior Liberal figures and raises questions about political donations and influence. Dominic Perrottet, the former premier, is not a person of interest and has not been accused of any wrongdoing.

The commission is expected to continue hearing evidence over the coming weeks. The outcome could have major implications for NSW politics and the Liberal Party.

Key Takeaways from the Hearing So Far

• Greenwood denies that the wire request was serious, calling it a “silly comment”.
• He also cannot recall a plan for a negative documentary by FriendlyJordies.
• The inquiry is examining $2 million in payments from a developer.
• All accused deny taking illegal political donations.

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