NSW Liberals Reformers Funds Used for Bucks Night, Icac Hears 2026

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) heard that a group of young conservative Liberal power brokers, known as the Reformers, used illegal donations to pay for a bucks night, revealing political donation misconduct in NSW. Robert Assaf, a key witness, admitted to temporarily using funds from the Reformers account for personal expenditure, as the inquiry investigates branch stacking and prohibited donor schemes.

The inquiry focuses on allegations that the Reformers solicited illegal donations to recruit party members, aiming to push conservative policies on same-sex marriage, abortion, and euthanasia. The counsel assisting, Peggy Dwyer SC, questioned Assaf about funneling payments from prohibited donor Michael O’Hara through Beckington, a lobbying firm, to maximize tax benefits—a practice Assaf now calls “tricky” but not initially dishonest.

Key Revelations from the Icac Hearing

Assaf’s testimony exposed the inner workings of the Reformers, including a WhatsApp message from Jean-Claude Perrottet, brother of former premier Dominic Perrottet, stating “Rob has the bucks cash coming back.” This message suggests a coordinated effort to manage funds for personal use, raising serious political corruption concerns.

The inquiry also heard that O’Hara admitted to a fake arrangement, paying Beckington for “strategic wealth strategy investment advice” that was not provided. This fake invoicing scheme highlights the lengths to which the group went to obscure the true nature of the payments, potentially violating electoral laws.

Branch Stacking and Its Impact on Democracy

Branch stacking undermines democratic processes by inflating membership numbers to influence preselections. The Reformers aimed to shift the NSW Liberals’ stance on social issues, but their methods—including illegal donations—have now come under legal scrutiny.

Assaf’s admission that he used funds for a bucks night demonstrates a blatant disregard for campaign finance rules. The Icac’s investigation is crucial for holding these power brokers accountable and restoring public trust in political integrity.

Comparison of Political Donation Practices

Key Takeaways from the Icac Hearing

• Personal use of political donations is a serious breach of trust and law.
• Fake invoicing to minimize tax is illegal and undermines financial transparency.
• Branch stacking distorts party democracy and must be addressed.
• Icac’s role is vital in uncovering such misconduct.

The inquiry continues to hear evidence, with potential further witnesses. This case underscores the need for stricter enforcement of donation laws and greater accountability for political factions.

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