Former New South Wales Nationals MP Michael Johnsen, who denies allegations of sexual assault and sexting, has launched a new consulting business specialising in government relations and reputation management.
Johnsen resigned from parliament in March after being accused of raping a sex worker in the Blue Mountains in 2019. He called the allegation "devastating, unfair and unfounded". An ABC investigation later revealed additional allegations about sexting while in parliament.
His resignation has triggered a closely fought byelection for his Upper Hunter seat, which the Nationals held by a 2.6% margin. The Coalition government is now in minority, with former sports minister John Sidoti also sidelined amid a corruption inquiry.
Johnsen has launched a website promoting Johnsen Consulting, featuring images of Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Deputy Premier John Barilaro – who was the first to call for his sacking. He promotes services including political monitoring, advocacy, and media and reputation management.
The website claims Johnsen secured over $1.9bn in capital investments and $345m in community grants during his 13-year tenure. It says his "know-how in dealing with local, state and federal governments" positions him as a senior strategist. The byelection is scheduled for 22 May.
