Former NSW Liberal Minister Claims Cult Took Over Party at Icac 2026

The NSW Liberal party has been engulfed in a corruption scandal as former minister David Elliott tells Icac that a cult took over the party. The inquiry has also led to the sacking of Catholic Schools NSW CEO Dallas McInerney over alleged illegal donations.

Former Minister's Shocking Testimony

David Elliott, who served as the Liberal MP for Baulkham Hills until his seat was abolished, testified before the Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) that he believed a cult had taken over the party. He claimed that after opposing developments by fugitive property developer Jean Nassif, he was followed by private investigators and received death threats.

Elliott, part of the Liberals' centre-right faction, retired from politics in 2023 after failing to secure preselection. His testimony sheds light on the internal power struggles and alleged corruption within the NSW Liberal party.

Allegations of Illegal Donations and Branch Stacking

Icac is investigating whether Dallas McInerney arranged and approved illegal political donations that exceeded caps and were not declared. These funds were allegedly directed to lobbying companies controlled by the Reformers, a faction within the party, to support recruitment and renewal of members—a practice known as branch stacking.

While branch stacking itself is not illegal, the inquiry is examining whether donations from Jean Nassif and his company Toplace were exchanged for political outcomes, including damage to Elliott's career. Christian Ellis, Jeremy Greenwood, and Charles Perrottet have been implicated, though they deny any wrongdoing.

Key Figures in the Inquiry

Impact on NSW Liberal Party

The scandal has raised serious questions about the integrity of the NSW Liberal party. Elliott's testimony suggests a coordinated effort by a faction to control the party's direction, using underhanded tactics. The sacking of McInerney adds another layer of controversy, as Catholic Schools NSW is a major institution.

The inquiry continues, with Ellis expected to avoid giving evidence from the UK. The outcome could have significant implications for the party's future and public trust in Australian politics.

Key Takeaways

• Former minister David Elliott claims a cult took over the NSW Liberal party.
• Allegations include illegal donations and branch stacking by the Reformers faction.
• Dallas McInerney was sacked from Catholic Schools NSW after appearing at Icac.
• Jean Nassif's connections to the party are under scrutiny.
• The inquiry may reshape NSW Liberal party leadership and practices.

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