Liberal Party Branch Stacking: NSW ICAC Inquiry Exposes Secret 2026

The Liberal Party branch stacking scandal has erupted in New South Wales, with secret tape recordings and sham payments laid bare during the first day of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) Operation Rosny inquiry. The investigation is probing allegations of possible offences under the Electoral Funding Act, revealing a web of influence peddling and internal ideological warfare within the party.

Secret Tape Recordings Expose Developer Influence

On Monday, counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer SC outlined horrifying details of how developer Jean Nassif, now a fugitive in Lebanon, used his millions to engage a group of Liberal operatives known as the Reformers. Secret recordings captured Nassif boasting that he had “my hands on the state government” and had “fucked” the career of a state politician by “taking his seat”. He also threatened to “fuck him sideways” against the state’s building commissioner, David Chandler, who was a thorn in his side.

In a September 2021 call, Nassif referred to then-premier Gladys Berejiklian as a “fucking bitch”, telling fellow operative Charles Perrottet, “Mate, we thought we’re gonna change her.” The tapes reveal a coordinated campaign to take over the Liberal party and promote a conservative agenda while delivering outcomes for their benefactor.

The Reformers: Key Players in the Branch Stacking Operation

The Reformers, according to ICAC, included two of former NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet’s brothers – Jean-Claude and Charles – as well as public relations firm principals Christian Ellis and Jeremy Greenwood. Dwyer alleges that these young operatives ran a major branch stacking operation designed to seize control of the party. The operation allegedly used sham payments and consultant fees to influence preselections and government decisions.

Impact: Resignations and Lost Seats

Nassif’s boasts were not idle. Soon after the taped call, Baulkham Hills MP David Elliott lost his preselection. Kevin Anderson, the minister responsible for the building commissioner, was replaced, and David Chandler resigned under enormous pressure. The ICAC inquiry will continue to expose the extent of corruption within the party.

Key Takeaways

• Secret tape recordings reveal developer Jean Nassif’s influence over NSW Liberal Party preselections.
• The Reformers group, including Perrottet brothers, allegedly ran a branch stacking operation using consultant fees.
• ICAC is investigating possible Electoral Funding Act offences and sham payments.
• The fallout includes resignations of a minister and the building commissioner.

FAQ