Icac Operation Rosny: 10-Week Hearings End With No Major Scalps 2026

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) inquiry into Operation Rosny has concluded after 10 weeks of public hearings, leaving many observers questioning what the high-profile investigation has achieved. The hearings, which began in July and ended on Tuesday, examined allegations of branch-stacking by the Reformers faction within the NSW Liberal Party and blackmail by Labor councillors in Sydney's inner west. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, the hearings ended without a major scalp, disappointing those expecting another spectacle like the premiership-ending appearances of Gladys Berejiklian and Barry O'Farrell.

Key Allegations and Key Players in Operation Rosny

The inquiry, led by counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer SC, focused on the role of electoral donations laws and the potential for corruption in politics. Dwyer emphasised on the opening day: "Money in politics, as in other spheres of life, has the potential to corrupt." The hearings detailed allegations that senior NSW Liberal politicians supported the branch-stacking efforts of a factional group of young conservative Christians known as the Reformers. Additionally, the commission examined claims of blackmail by Labor councillors in Sydney's inner west. However, the hearings concluded without any major resignations or criminal referrals, leading some to label the inquiry a "damp squib."

What Did the Hearings Achieve?

Anthony Whealy KC, chair of the Centre for Public Integrity and a former Icac assistant commissioner, argues that the success of an inquiry should not be measured by resignations. "The measure of an inquiry's success does not have anything to do with resignations," he said. Instead, the impact of Operation Rosny may lie in its exposure of systemic issues and its potential to prompt legislative reform. The hearings shed light on the vulnerabilities in NSW's electoral donations laws and the ways in which factional groups can exploit them.

Comparing Icac Inquiries: Operation Rosny vs. Previous Investigations

To understand the significance of Operation Rosny, it's helpful to compare it with other high-profile Icac inquiries. The table below highlights key differences:

Key Takeaways from the Operation Rosny Hearings

• No major resignations: Unlike previous inquiries, Operation Rosny did not result in the resignation of any senior politicians.
• Exposure of systemic issues: The hearings highlighted weaknesses in electoral donations laws and the potential for corruption.
• Ongoing investigations: The commission may still pursue further action based on the evidence presented.
• Public awareness: The hearings raised public awareness about branch-stacking and blackmail in NSW politics.

What Happens Next After Operation Rosny?

Although the public hearings have ended, the work of Icac is far from over. The commission will now consider the evidence and may issue findings or recommendations. It could also refer individuals to the Director of Public Prosecutions for criminal charges. Additionally, the hearings may spur legislative changes to tighten electoral donations laws and prevent branch-stacking. As Whealy notes, the true impact of Operation Rosny may not be immediately apparent but could lead to long-term reforms.

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