The federal opposition leader Angus Taylor has been named as a potential donor to a conservative Liberal group now being investigated by the NSW corruption watchdog, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac). While Taylor himself is not accused of wrongdoing, the Operation Rosny hearings have revealed alleged efforts by a group of young Liberal power brokers known as the “Reformers” to solicit undeclared donations.
Icac Operation Rosny: Key Allegations
On the second day of hearings, counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer SC outlined how the Reformers allegedly solicited or accepted donations from prohibited donors, exceeding caps and failing to declare amounts. Former NSW Liberal staffer Dylan Whitelaw gave evidence, revealing messages that implicated Taylor.
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Screenshot Evidence and the “Shake Down” Message
During cross-examination, Whitelaw was shown a screenshot of a message from Dallas McInerney, CEO of Catholic Schools NSW. The message, sent by Reformers member Robert Assaf in March 2021, read: “I have breakfast club with ministers this Thursday morning, who can I get an update from? Re SCD [state council delegate] progress in the last six to 12 months. I want to shake down Angus for 10k.” Whitelaw confirmed “Angus” referred to Angus Taylor.
Another message, days later, allegedly said: “Dallas has told me he got the commitment from Angus, the 15k injection plus a 3k monthly donation!” Whitelaw said he did not recall sending the message or Taylor making any financial contribution. The inquiry continues to examine whether these donations violated NSW electoral laws.
Comparison of Key Players in the Investigation
| Name | Role | Allegations |
|---|---|---|
| Angus Taylor | Federal Opposition Leader | Potential donor (not accused of wrongdoing) |
| Dylan Whitelaw | Former NSW Liberal Staffer | Witness; messages cited as evidence |
| Robert Assaf | Reformers Member | Sent “shake down” message |
| Dallas McInerney | Catholic Schools NSW CEO | Allegedly facilitated donation |
Key Takeaways from the Hearings
- Angus Taylor was named as a potential donor in a group chat, but no evidence of wrongdoing has been presented against him.
- The Reformers aimed to recruit conservative members to the NSW Liberals state council via undeclared donations.
- Messages suggest a commitment of $15,000 plus $3,000 monthly, though Whitelaw could not recall them.
- Icac’s Operation Rosny continues to probe alleged breaches of donation caps and prohibitions.
FAQ
What is the Icac investigation into?
The investigation, Operation Rosny, examines allegations that a group called the Reformers solicited or accepted unlawful donations to influence the NSW Liberal party's state council elections.
Is Angus Taylor accused of any crime?
No. Angus Taylor is not accused of wrongdoing. He was named as a potential donor, but the inquiry has not produced evidence he knowingly broke any laws.
What did the “shake down” message mean?
The message, from Reformers member Robert Assaf, used the phrase “shake down Angus for 10k” to describe an attempt to solicit a $10,000 donation from Taylor for the group's political activities.
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