Opposition leader Angus Taylor has denied making any payments to a conservative Liberal group known as the Reformers, which is currently under investigation by the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac). Taylor, who is not accused of wrongdoing, stated during a press conference in Queensland on Wednesday that he is not a party to the proceedings and that no payment was made.
Taylor's response to Icac allegations
When asked about a text message referencing a potential donation, Taylor said: “I’m not going to give a running commentary on all of this. I’m not a party to the proceedings, but no payment was made.” He reiterated that no payment was made and declined to comment further, stating he would let the commission do its job. Taylor also noted that he had not been approached by Icac to appear as a witness and would not discuss hypotheticals.
Fellow Liberals close ranks
Other Liberal MPs have rallied around Taylor, avoiding direct commentary on the hearing. Deputy leader Senator Jane Hume emphasized the importance of allowing the inquiry to proceed without political interference, stating that any allegations of inappropriate donations are a matter for the NSW division of the party. Energy Minister Dan Tehan echoed this sentiment, urging politicians to let Icac do its job. Shadow treasurer Tim Wilson said he had no knowledge of the case, while Liberal MP Mary Aldred noted Taylor was not involved in the process.
Evidence from Icac proceedings
During Tuesday's Icac hearing, former NSW Liberal parliamentary staffer Dylan Whitelaw gave evidence related to the Reformers. A screenshot of a message from Catholic Schools NSW chief executive Dallas McInerney was shown, allegedly stating: “I want to shake down Angus for 10k.” Whitelaw assumed “Angus” referred to Angus Taylor. Another message from Whitelaw allegedly claimed: “Dallas has told me he got the commitment from Angus, the 15k injection plus a 3k monthly donation!” However, Whitelaw said he did not recall sending the message and would be surprised if Taylor made any financial contribution.
Connection to lobbyist payments
Counsel assisting Juliet Curtin questioned Whitelaw about a potential link between an increase in a monthly retainer from Catholic Schools NSW to lobbyist firm Beckington, founded by Reformers member Christian Ellis, and the purported monthly amount from Taylor. Curtin noted the increase appeared to happen at the same time, but Whitelaw could not confirm any connection.
Background on the Reformers
The Reformers is a conservative Liberal group that aimed to elect as many conservative members as possible to the NSW Liberals state council, advocating for more conservative policies on same-sex marriage, abortion, and euthanasia. The Icac investigation continues.
