Icac Hearings Uncover Allegations of 'Shit Sheet' and Political Interference in NSW Liberal Party
Operation Rosny probes alleged illegal donations and factional battles, revealing claims of character assassination and attempts to influence ministerial appointments.
Image: Eddie Pollard / AI
Sarah Connor
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) is holding hearings as part of Operation Rosny, investigating allegations of corruption against individuals associated with the NSW Liberal party.
Dylan Whitelaw, a former Liberal staffer and associate of the Reformers, delivered testimony to the inquiry, detailing the group's activities. He confirmed their "large distaste" for David Elliott.
This animosity manifested in a "shit sheet" targeting minister David Elliott, crafted by young conservative power brokers within the NSW Liberal party. It contained claims of an extramarital affair.
As most of Sydney knows I’m a devoted husband of 30 years to a beautiful woman who doesn’t deserve to be treated like this by the party she has sacrificed so much for.
David Elliott, a former NSW Liberal minister, vehemently denied the allegation. He stated, "As most of Sydney knows I’m a devoted husband of 30 years to a beautiful woman who doesn’t deserve to be treated like this by the party she has sacrificed so much for."
Under cross-examination, Whitelaw accepted that no affair had taken place, despite the alleged existence of the document. The Icac uncovered a document and text trail related to a "David Elliot shit sheet.docx" created in 2021, providing a timeline for the alleged smear campaign.
Beyond the personal attacks, the inquiry also probed potential financial impropriety. Dallas McInerney, chief executive of Catholic Schools NSW, allegedly stated he would "shake down Angus for 10K" in a message read to the inquiry.
Monthly payments made by Catholic Schools NSW to Ellis and Greenwood's company, Beckington, increased by $3,000 around March 2021. This coincided with text exchanges about financial support from Angus Taylor.
Further allegations emerged concerning attempts to discredit public officials. Chris Spence, chief of staff to former Liberal planning minister Anthony Roberts, claimed possession of a potentially damaging video of building commissioner David Chandler.
Whitelaw stated he never saw the video but alleged it included the imputation that Chandler was racist. It referenced a list of "dodgy" developers or certifiers.
The scope of alleged influence extended to ministerial appointments. Jean Nassif allegedly claimed in a phone call that he had paid for Chandler’s removal, stating, "the fair trading minister is gonna to be one of my girls."
Two months after Nassif's call, Dominic Perrottet appointed Eleni Petinos as fair trading minister. This timing raises questions about potential influence on the appointment.
In July 2022, David Chandler resigned following an investigation into his conduct. Petinos requested the probe, which later cleared him of any wrongdoing.
Spence and Petinos are not accused of any wrongdoing in connection with these allegations, according to the inquiry. The investigation continues to unravel the complex web of interactions.
NSW Liberal leader Kellie Sloane has checked in on Petinos and has not asked her to stand aside from shadow cabinet. She maintains support despite the ongoing investigation.
Elliott expressed his anticipation for future proceedings. He stated, "Needless to say I’m looking forward to the possibility of providing my own observations should the Commission see fit to invite me to give evidence."
This entire episode exposes a history of intense factionalism within the NSW Liberal Party. Internal rivalries often spill into public view, with the alleged "shit sheet" on David Elliott mirroring past instances of internal party documents used to undermine opponents.
Stakeholders across the political spectrum now face pressure. The public demands transparency while economic players, like Catholic Schools NSW, find their financial dealings under a harsh spotlight.
Political figures, including Kellie Sloane and Dominic Perrottet, navigate the fallout. Their reputations are tied directly to the inquiry's findings, and the landscape of political accountability shifts with each revelation.
This inquiry will reshape how internal disputes are managed and how ministerial appointments are scrutinised. The future demands greater oversight and a clearer delineation between political maneuvering and ethical governance.