NSW Liberal Powerbroker at Heart of ICAC Allegations Now Living 2026

The NSW Liberal powerbroker Christian Ellis, a key figure at the centre of the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) allegations, has relocated to the United Kingdom and is not expected to appear during the eight weeks of public hearings starting Monday. The ICAC’s Operation Rosny will examine claims of branch stacking and prohibited donations involving senior Liberal figures, including Ellis, former staffer Dylan Whitelaw, and consultant Robert Assaf.

What Is the ICAC Investigation Into the NSW Liberal Party?

The corruption watchdog is probing two main allegations. First, that Liberal figures, including Ellis and Assaf, “solicited or accepted” donations from prohibited donors in undeclared amounts or above caps to recruit or renew party members – a practice known as branch stacking. Second, that between 2020 and 2023, fugitive property developer Jean Nassif and his company Toplace made prohibited donations solicited or accepted by Liberals, including Ellis, “in exchange for the pursuit of outcomes sought by Mr Nassif”.

Key Individuals Named in the ICAC Inquiry

• Christian Ellis – former registered lobbyist and Liberal powerbroker, now living in the UK.
• Michael O’Hara – hotelier, first witness to appear.
• Dylan Whitelaw – former Liberal staffer (not named in ICAC allegations).
• Robert Assaf – consultant, among 10 individuals under investigation.
• Jean Nassif – fugitive property developer, alleged donor.

Background: The 2023 Parliamentary Inquiry

A 2023 parliamentary inquiry preceded ICAC’s current examination of possible offences under the Electoral Funding Act. That inquiry was prompted by allegations made in a 2022 speech under parliamentary privilege by Liberal MP Ray Williams. Williams claimed Nassif had met Ellis and other senior Liberals and paid significant funds to arrange for new councillors to be elected to the Hills Shire council. Ellis did not appear at the 2023 inquiry, and he has now moved to the UK.

Why Is Christian Ellis Not Expected to Appear?

According to information revealed by Guardian Australia, Ellis has relocated to the United Kingdom. While the ICAC has powers to compel witnesses, his absence from the jurisdiction makes it unlikely he will give evidence during the eight weeks of public hearings. This raises questions about the effectiveness of anti-corruption processes when key figures are abroad.

Implications for NSW Politics

The ICAC inquiry threatens to expose deep-rooted practices within the NSW Liberal Party. Branch stacking has long been a concern in Australian politics, and this case highlights how prohibited donations and opaque membership recruitment can undermine democratic processes. The outcome of Operation Rosny could lead to referrals for prosecution and further calls for electoral funding reform.

FAQ

Stay informed about this developing story as the ICAC hearings unfold. The revelations could reshape the political landscape in New South Wales and prompt stricter campaign finance laws.