NSW Liberal Leak Inquiry: Tudehope Admits Sending Confidential 2026

The NSW Liberal leak inquiry has revealed that opposition leader Damien Tudehope admitted to sending a confidential draft parliamentary report to a young conservative powerbroker, as the Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) continues its investigation into alleged branch stacking. This admission came during Tuesday's hearing of Operation Rosny, which examines whether the Reformers group solicited or accepted illegal donations to recruit party members.

Tudehope, who has stood aside from his shadow cabinet roles, acknowledged that he emailed the draft report to Reformer Jeremy Greenwood in February 2023. He stated he was aware of the obligation to keep draft parliamentary reports confidential but could not recall receiving the document initially. The inquiry also heard that Greenwood, Christian Ellis, and Jean-Claude Perrottet have avoided appearing at the hearings.

What Is Operation Rosny?

Operation Rosny is an Icac investigation focusing on allegations that the Reformers—a faction within the NSW Liberal Party—solicited or accepted illegal donations to recruit or renew party members, a practice known as branch stacking. While branch stacking itself is not illegal, the use of prohibited donations is. The inquiry has already heard evidence from several witnesses, including former premier Dominic Perrottet.

Key Evidence from Tudehope's Testimony

During the hearing, counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer SC presented an email showing Tudehope sent the draft report to Greenwood. Tudehope admitted, "It appears that I did," but claimed he had no recollection of the specific email. He also discussed Jean-Claude Perrottet's whereabouts with Dominic Perrottet, stating that Dominic said he didn't know where his brother was.

The leak of the draft report is significant because it may have allowed the Reformers to prepare their response or influence the inquiry's findings. However, Tudehope is not named in any allegations by Icac, and his role appears to be that of a witness rather than a target.

Comparison of Branch Stacking Allegations

The table illustrates that while branch stacking is often seen as a party management issue, the involvement of illegal donations elevates it to a corruption matter. This inquiry could set a precedent for how such cases are handled in the future.

Implications for the NSW Liberal Party

The leak admission adds to the political turmoil within the NSW Liberal Party, which has been plagued by factional infighting. The Reformers, a group of young conservatives, have been accused of trying to stack branches with new members to gain influence. This has led to internal divisions and public scrutiny.

Tudehope's decision to stand aside from his shadow cabinet roles demonstrates the seriousness of the situation, even though he is not accused of wrongdoing. The inquiry's findings could have far-reaching consequences for the party's leadership and its ability to regain public trust.

Key Takeaways from the Hearing

• Tudehope admitted to leaking a confidential draft report to Jeremy Greenwood.
• The leak occurred in February 2023, just before the state election.
• Greenwood, Ellis, and Jean-Claude Perrottet have avoided appearing at the inquiry.
• Tudehope discussed Jean-Claude's whereabouts with Dominic Perrottet, who claimed ignorance.
• The inquiry continues to investigate illegal donations and branch stacking.

FAQ

The NSW Liberal leak inquiry continues to unfold, with more hearings expected. The public will be watching closely to see if any findings of corruption are made and what impact they will have on the party's future.

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