The New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has cleared Charles Perrottet, the brother of former premier Dominic Perrottet, and a group of Liberal Party reformers of allegations of illegal branch stacking.
The corruption watchdog investigated claims that the group had tried to stack party branches with new members to influence preselections. In its findings, ICAC said there was no evidence of corrupt conduct by the individuals involved.
Investigation findings
ICAC's report concluded that the actions of Charles Perrottet and the other reformers did not meet the threshold for corrupt conduct under its enabling legislation. The inquiry had examined allegations that the group sought to recruit members to gain influence in the party's internal processes.
The watchdog found that while the activities may have been politically contentious, they did not constitute corruption. The investigation focused on a faction of moderate Liberals who were attempting to reform the party's preselection processes.
Reaction and impact
The clearing of the group is a significant development for the NSW Liberal Party, which has been embroiled in internal disputes over preselections and membership rules. The findings are likely to ease pressure on the reform-minded faction within the party.
The outcome of the ICAC inquiry brings an end to a period of uncertainty for those involved, allowing them to move on from the allegations. The commission's decision underscores the legal distinction between aggressive political campaigning and corrupt conduct.
