Opposition Leader Angus Taylor declined to confirm whether he was asked to contribute financially to a Liberal sub-faction currently under investigation by the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). The probe involves The Reformers, a group of conservative Liberal Party operatives, which has come under scrutiny over alleged attempts to solicit funds from party members.
On Friday, Taylor was pressed on evidence presented earlier in the week suggesting that The Reformers sought a $15,000 one-time payment and a recurring monthly donation of $3,000 from him in 2021. Taylor denied making any payments and declined to provide further details while visiting Western Australia, stating he would not offer a “running commentary” on the matter.
Robert Assaf, a co-founder of The Reformers, appeared as a witness during Friday’s ICAC hearing. When questioned about whether Taylor had made any donations, Assaf indicated he did not recall any payments from the opposition leader or any ministers. He also addressed a claim involving Catholic Schools NSW chief Dallas McInerney, who was reportedly involved in securing funds from Taylor. Assaf said he was not aware of such transactions.
During his testimony, Assaf described The Reformers as a “young and immature” group, explaining that the sub-faction’s bank account was sometimes used by members as an advance for personal expenses. He was also questioned about a text message from Jean-Claude Perrottet, brother of former NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet, which referenced efforts to raise additional funds for The Reformers. The inquiry now appears to be broadening its focus, with Jean-Claude Perrottet expected to face questioning.
The ICAC investigation has also entangled other NSW Liberal Party figures. State Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane reprimanded Chris Rath, the party’s planning and arts spokesman, following reports that Rath had tipped off a member of The Reformers about the whereabouts of process servers attempting to serve parliamentary summons during a 2023 inquiry. That inquiry examined allegations of branch stacking connected to The Hills Shire Council, which is linked to the current ICAC probe.
Sloane confirmed that Rath acknowledged his “error of judgment,” apologized at the time, and recognized that disclosing confidential committee information was inappropriate. She stated she had spoken with Rath directly, expressing her disappointment and emphasizing the high standards expected of all members of her team.
As the ICAC investigation continues, the involvement of multiple Liberal Party figures and the movement of funds within party sub-factions remain under close examination.