The ICAC (Independent Commission Against Corruption) is investigating allegations of political corruption involving Charles Perrottet, a prominent Liberal Party figure, and Jean Nassif, a property developer. Perrottet is currently testifying about his interactions with Nassif, including meetings at Nassif's home and a sushi restaurant in Melbourne. Counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer, SC, has presented evidence suggesting Perrottet provided advice to Nassif to join the Property Council and facilitated his access to government fast-track processes. Perrottet denies lying, claiming he only gave general political updates rather than seeking financial gains. His wife, Anita Perrottet, is also under scrutiny, as her company Macquarie Consulting received $150,000 in payments from Nassif's business. Perrottet claims this amount is not significant, but the ICAC is examining whether this constitutes improper influence. Additionally, the inquiry has uncovered branch-stacking activities aimed at bolstering the Liberal Party's right faction, with Perrottet's brother Jean-Claude and Reformers group implicated. Text messages between Perrottet's associates, Jeremy Greenwood and Christian Ellis, reveal discussions about a potential $1 million payment from Nassif, raising questions about conflicts of interest. The hearings also highlight concerns about political factionalism and the misuse of public resources. The case underscores broader issues of corruption within political circles and the challenges of holding powerful figures accountable.

The Canberra Liberals have called for an independent audit to investigate whether union influence has cost taxpayers more in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) on projects funded by the federal government, following corruption findings involving the CFMEU. Opposition Leader Mark Parton and Senate candidate Nick Tyrrell urged Finance Minister Katy Gallagher to support an audit of federal infrastructure funding administered by the territory. They argued that taxpayers deserve transparency, stating secrecy allows corrupt practices to go unchecked. The pair wrote to Senator Gallagher on July 29, requesting the Australian National Audit Office to assess federal infrastructure funding awarded over six years. While Gallagher referred the letter to Infrastructure Minister Catherine King, the government denied tolerating criminal behaviour in construction. Parton highlighted past issues like the $577 million light rail contract awarded without competitive tendering and criticized the pattern of secrecy. Independent senator David Pocock supported the inquiry, noting evidence suggested corruption was not a one-off incident. The call comes amid broader concerns about union influence in public projects, with calls for accountability across political lines.

NSW shadow attorney-general and senior Liberal figure Damien Tudehope has stepped down from the front bench after being called to give evidence to a corruption inquiry. The move follows the Independent Commission Against Corruption’s announcement that it will hold public hearings under Operation Rosny, beginning on 27 July, examining alleged links between political donations and favourable treatment in NSW planning and development decisions. The inquiry is expected to scrutinise donations made by property developer Jean Nassif and his company Toplace, as well as other political and business figures with connections to the Liberal Party. Mr Tudehope stated that he is not under investigation and that there is no suggestion of wrongdoing on his part. However, he said he was stepping aside to avoid causing unnecessary distraction for his party ahead of the upcoming state election in March. He noted that the inquiry involves several individuals with whom he has had close political relationships over the course of his career, and confirmed he is willing to fully cooperate as a witness. Opposition Leader Kellie Sloane had previously described the timing of the ICAC inquiry as a significant distraction for the Liberal Party. Mr Tudehope said he had discussed his decision with Ms Sloane, who accepted his reasons for stepping down. The inquiry will also examine donations linked to figures such as former Catholic Schools NSW chief executive Dallas McInerney and hotelier Michael O’Hara, both connected to broader Liberal Party networks. Mr McInerney has already temporarily stepped aside in relation to the inquiry. The case continues to place political scrutiny on donation practices and potential influence within NSW politics.