John Sidoti, the former New South Wales minister found by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) to have engaged in serious corrupt conduct, was celebrated at a Liberal party fundraiser last week for his successor, Stephanie Di Pasqua.
The event, headlined by the NSW opposition leader, Kellie Sloane, was emceed by a staff member from her parliamentary office. In footage seen by Guardian Australia, Sidoti was introduced as one of the 'esteemed luminaries of the Liberal party', drawing applause and cheers from the crowd.
In 2022, Icac found that Sidoti had engaged in 'serious corrupt conduct' to benefit his family's property interests. Sloane's spokesperson said she had not been advised of Sidoti's attendance prior to her arrival, and that the event was organised by the NSW Liberal Party with roughly 130 attendees.
Sidoti told Guardian Australia he had 'popped in' as the former local member without buying a ticket, and because he knew the venue owners. He said he had planned to stay for 10 or 15 minutes but was asked to remain for the speeches, and that he had spoken briefly to Sloane, wishing her 'best of luck at her next election'.
Sidoti served as sports minister in 2019 before standing aside pending an Icac investigation into allegations he used his parliamentary role to influence City of Canada Bay councillors over properties in Five Dock. The watchdog recommended that the director of public prosecutions consider charging him with misconduct in public office, but no prosecution has been brought. Sidoti maintains his innocence and said he is 'waiting for my day in court'. He remained the MP for Drummoyne until 2023, when he did not seek re-election; Di Pasqua won the seat.
