Angus Taylor Icac Inquiry: Text Messages Suggest Payments to 2026

The Icac inquiry into political donations has heard text messages suggesting that Angus Taylor, the federal opposition leader, may have paid money to the hard-right factional group the Reformers, or was refusing to do so. The revelations emerged during the anti-corruption watchdog's examination of alleged prohibited donations involving property developer Jean Nassif and his company Toplace.

Text Messages Revealed at Icac Inquiry

During Thursday's hearing, the counsel assisting Icac, Juliet Curtin, read out text messages exchanged in September 2021 between Reformer cofounder Christian Ellis and Jean-Claude Perrottet, the brother of former NSW premier Dominic Perrottet. In one message, Ellis states the group has "zero dollars at the moment," prompting Jean-Claude to ask why. Ellis replies: "Because Michael O’Hara hates the vax campaign, and Angus Taylor hates Rob."

Curtin asked Jean-Claude whether this suggested that Taylor had paid money to the Reformers or was refusing to. Jean-Claude responded, "It sounds like that’s the suggestion." He added that he had heard it come up at the inquiry but had not recalled it until then. Taylor is not named in Icac's allegations and has previously denied making payments to the group.

Context of the Inquiry

The corruption watchdog is examining allegations that between 2020 and 2023, Nassif and Toplace made prohibited donations solicited or accepted by Ellis, Jeremy Greenwood, and Charles Perrottet in exchange for pursuing outcomes sought by Nassif. The inquiry has also heard evidence that hotelier Michael O’Hara threatened to end a payment arrangement with lobbying company Beckington after the Reformers adopted an anti-vaccination stance.

Late on Thursday, the inquiry heard intercepted phone calls involving fugitive property developer Jean Nassif for the first time since the opening day. These calls are part of the broader investigation into political influence and donation practices.

Key Takeaways from the Hearing

• Text messages suggest Angus Taylor may have had financial dealings with the Reformers, though he denies any payments.
• The inquiry is examining alleged prohibited donations from Jean Nassif and Toplace to factional figures.
• Michael O’Hara's threat to stop funding is linked to the group's anti-vaccination stance.
• Jean-Claude Perrottet's testimony adds a layer of complexity to the case.

Comparison of Political Donation Cases

Implications for Political Accountability

This inquiry highlights the ongoing concerns about the influence of money in politics. The revelations about Taylor, even if unproven, underscore the need for transparency in political donations. The Icac's work is crucial in holding public officials and donors accountable.

As the inquiry continues, more evidence may emerge that could reshape public perception of these political figures. The outcome will likely have significant implications for New South Wales' political landscape.

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