NSW minister tells Icac she was sacked over Chandler dispute 2026

NSW minister Eleni Petinos has told the Icac corruption inquiry that she believes she was sacked by Premier Dominic Perrottet due to her reluctance to dismiss building commissioner David Chandler, describing the decision as "bizarre" and "something strange at play". The former fair trading minister gave evidence on Thursday that she was used by fellow Liberals to try to remove Chandler, who had become a target for his tough stance on developers.

Petinos recounted numerous attempts in 2022 to persuade her that Chandler was "dodgy" and should be sacked. She told the Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) that her subsequent sacking in July 2022, allegedly for bullying staff, was unfair and potentially motivated by her refusal to act against Chandler. The counsel assisting, Peggy Dwyer SC, asked if she suspected she was being used to get rid of Chandler. "Subsequently, yes," Petinos replied.

Timeline of events leading to the sacking

The evidence reveals a rapid sequence of events that culminated in Petinos losing her ministerial position. On Friday 27 July 2022, Perrottet, who was in India, appeared supportive after bullying allegations were published. But by Sunday night, he had decided to sack her. In the interim, Chandler resigned, lodging an incendiary letter with departmental head Emma Hogan that alleged undue influence by developers and a lack of support from Petinos and her staff. He was later reinstated.

Key evidence from Petinos

Petinos told Icac that soon after her appointment, she had conversations with several Liberal staffers about Chandler. She noted that Charles Perrottet, the premier's brother and a rightwing power broker, was among those who expressed concerns. The inquiry is examining whether Chandler was undermined by elements within the government.

• Petinos claims she was never given a chance to respond to bullying allegations before being sacked.
• She described the sacking as "swift" and "coldly" executed without proper process.
• Chandler's resignation letter raised serious questions about developer influence on the Liberal government.
• The Icac inquiry is ongoing, with further hearings expected.

Implications for NSW politics

The case has sparked debate about accountability and due process in ministerial dismissals. Petinos's testimony suggests a possible conspiracy to remove Chandler, which could have broader implications for the government's integrity. The inquiry continues to examine whether there was a coordinated effort to undermine the building commissioner.

FAQ

The Icac inquiry continues to shed light on the inner workings of the NSW government. As more evidence emerges, the public is learning about the pressures faced by ministers and the potential consequences of standing up to powerful interests. For now, Petinos's testimony stands as a stark reminder of the need for transparency and fairness in political processes.

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