Former NSW Liberal Minister Celebrated at Fundraiser Amid Icac Scandal
In a striking display of political allegiance, John Sidoti, a former New South Wales Liberal minister who was found by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) to have engaged in serious corrupt conduct, was warmly received at a recent election fundraiser. The event, headlined by state opposition leader Kellie Sloane, saw Sidoti applauded as one of the esteemed luminaries of the Liberal party, raising questions about the party's stance on integrity and accountability.
Fundraiser Details and Sidoti's Role
The fundraiser, held last week, was organized to support the re-election campaign of Stephanie Di Pasqua, Sidoti's successor as the MP for Drummoyne. Emceed by a staff member from Sloane's parliamentary office, the event drew cheers when Sidoti's presence was acknowledged. In footage obtained by Guardian Australia, the staff member highlighted Sidoti's attendance, thanking him for coming and eliciting applause from the crowd.
Sidoti, who left the Liberal party in 2021 amid an Icac investigation, told Guardian Australia that he had merely popped in as the former local member, without purchasing a ticket, and stayed for about an hour after being asked to remain for speeches. He expressed being pleasantly surprised by the positive response from other attendees.
Icac Findings and Political Fallout
In 2022, Icac concluded that Sidoti had engaged in serious corrupt conduct to benefit his family's property interests in Sydney's Five Dock area between 2013 and 2017. The watchdog recommended that the director of public prosecutions consider charging him with misconduct in public office. Despite this, Sidoti has maintained his innocence, stating he is waiting for his day in court and criticizing Icac as a non-judicial body.
The event comes at a time when the NSW opposition, under Sloane's leadership, has faced criticism for perceived lack of support for Icac. This includes opposition to a bill granting Icac permanent powers to use unlawful recordings in investigations, though the Coalition later backed down and supported its passage. Sloane's spokesperson clarified that she was not advised of Sidoti's attendance prior to the event, which was organized by the NSW Liberal Party with roughly 130 attendees.
Broader Implications for the Liberal Party
The fundraiser highlights ongoing tensions within the Liberal party regarding corruption and ethics. Sidoti, who served as sports minister in 2019 before stepping aside due to the Icac probe, rejoined the party about two years ago after leaving parliament. He has not made any donations beyond his membership fees, according to his statements.
Other notable figures at the event included NSW deputy leader Natalie Ward, shadow ministers Tim James and Chris Rath, and federal senator Jessica Collins. Tickets ranged from $220 for individual registration to $2,000 for tables, with VIP seats at $500. A spokesperson for the NSW Liberals noted that Sidoti was not on the registered attendee list.
This incident underscores the challenges the Liberal party faces as it prepares for the March 2027 election, with fundraising difficulties reported and ongoing scrutiny over its handling of corruption allegations. Sidoti's case remains unresolved, with no prosecution yet brought by the DPP, adding to the controversy surrounding his public rehabilitation within party circles.
