A major corruption inquiry into the NSW Liberal Party has begun, with the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) examining allegations surrounding political donations, party influence and links between political figures and property interests.
The investigation, known as Operation Rosny, is focused on whether individuals associated with the NSW Liberal Party accepted or arranged political donations that may have breached electoral funding laws. The public inquiry began on 27 July 2026 and is expected to continue for around eight weeks.
ICAC is investigating allegations involving several people, including former Liberal Party figures, political operatives, property developer Jean Nassif, Catholic Schools NSW chief executive Dallas McInerney, hotelier Michael O’Hara and others. The commission has stressed that the inquiry is to gather evidence and has not made findings against any individuals.
One major focus of the inquiry is whether prohibited or undeclared political donations were used to influence internal party matters, including recruitment of party members and factional control. ICAC is examining whether donations exceeded legal limits or were not properly disclosed under NSW electoral funding rules.
The investigation follows allegations first raised publicly in 2022 by former NSW Liberal MP Ray Williams, who questioned whether property developer Jean Nassif had influenced political decisions inside the party. Those allegations centred on claims that political support was organised around property interests and local government outcomes.
Jean Nassif, a controversial property developer linked to the inquiry, is expected to be a significant figure in the hearings. Reports have stated that he is currently overseas and is not expected to appear before the commission during the inquiry.
Another area being examined is the relationship between political networks, lobbying activities and development interests. The inquiry will consider whether political influence was used to achieve favourable outcomes for individuals or organisations connected to property and government decision-making.
The hearings are expected to examine evidence from former political staffers, party figures and other witnesses. ICAC will look at documents, communications and financial arrangements as part of its investigation.
The inquiry has attracted significant public attention because it involves questions about transparency, political donations and the relationship between developers and elected officials.
Political donations are an ongoing issue in Australia, with governments and integrity bodies continuing to examine whether existing rules provide enough protection against undue influence. The NSW Electoral Funding Act sets limits and disclosure requirements designed to increase transparency around political financing.
The outcome of Operation Rosny could lead to recommendations for changes to political donation rules, party processes or government oversight if ICAC identifies misconduct or weaknesses in current systems.
For now, the inquiry remains focused on collecting evidence. ICAC will release further information as hearings continue, but final conclusions will only be made after the investigation process is complete.
