The New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has launched a major public inquiry examining allegations involving property developer Jean Nassif, senior figures connected to the NSW Liberal Party, political donors and local government figures.
The investigation, known as Operation Rosny, is focused on allegations relating to possible offences under the Electoral Funding Act and other matters. ICAC has announced that public hearings will examine whether political donations were improperly made, accepted or used in ways that breached electoral funding rules.
Jean Nassif, a Sydney property developer associated with the former company Toplace, is among the key figures being examined. The inquiry is also looking at individuals connected with the NSW Liberal Party, including party figures and lobbyists, as well as other people linked to political donation issues.
ICAC allegations include claims that certain individuals may have solicited or accepted political donations that were not properly declared or exceeded legal limits. The commission is also examining whether prohibited donors were involved in arrangements connected with political activity between 2019 and 2023.
The investigation has attracted significant attention because of the involvement of prominent political figures and questions about the relationship between property developers, political parties and government decision-making. ICAC said the inquiry is intended to gather evidence and determine whether any corrupt conduct or breaches of relevant laws occurred.
Among those connected to the inquiry are brothers of former NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet, including Jean-Claude Perrottet and Charles Perrottet, along with other Liberal Party-associated figures. The allegations being examined have not been proven, and individuals involved have the right to respond during the inquiry process.
The inquiry is also examining allegations involving possible links between political donations, party membership recruitment and internal political activities. ICAC has stated that the investigation includes questions about whether donations may have been used for purposes that were not properly disclosed under NSW electoral laws.
The public hearings are expected to run for several weeks, allowing ICAC commissioners to hear evidence from witnesses and examine documents relating to the allegations. The commission publishes hearing information, transcripts and exhibits as proceedings progress, subject to legal restrictions.
The investigation comes amid broader scrutiny of political donations and lobbying in NSW. Questions about transparency and accountability have increased following several high-profile corruption inquiries involving relationships between business interests and government decision-making.
ICAC investigations do not determine guilt or innocence immediately; instead, the commission gathers evidence and may make findings and recommendations after considering all available information. Any allegations examined during Operation Rosny remain untested unless proven through legal processes.
The outcome of the inquiry could have significant political implications, particularly for discussions around political donations, party governance and public confidence in government institutions.
