Politics
Former NSW premier’s brother allegedly shared secret recordings to assist property developer
A corruption inquiry heard allegations that Charles Perrottet shared audio files to undermine adversaries of fugitive developer Jean Nassif.
The short version
- Lawyers assisting the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) alleged that Charles Perrottet, brother of former premier Dominic Perrottet, shared "dirt" to help fugitive developer Jean Nassif achieve political outcomes.
- Former MP and chief of staff Chris Spence testified that, in hindsight, Charles Perrottet's sharing of two audio files in 2021 appeared to serve Nassif's interests.
- The inquiry is investigating whether Liberal figures accepted donations from Nassif and his company, Toplace, in exchange for political favors, including the removal of building commissioner David Chandler.
Key facts
- Former NSW Liberal MP and staffer Chris Spence testified before the Icac on Monday.[The Guardian]
- Counsel assisting the inquiry alleged that Charles Perrottet shared a May 2021 recording concerning building commissioner David Chandler and an October 2021 recording of David Elliott criticizing Dominic Perrottet to damage political adversaries.[The Guardian]
- Spence acknowledged that, upon reflection, Charles Perrottet's actions looked like he was working to further Nassif's interests, though Spence denied knowing of any such plans at the time.[The Guardian]
- Former minister David Elliott previously testified that Nassif began targeting him after Elliott opposed Nassif's property developments.[The Guardian]
- Former fair trading minister Eleni Petinos told the commission she may have been used by fellow Liberals, including Charles Perrottet and Spence, to orchestrate the removal of Chandler.[The Guardian]
- Charles Perrottet and Jean Nassif have both previously denied any wrongdoing.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- The full extent of Charles Perrottet's relationship with Nassif and whether he directly received donations in exchange for political influence remains a key focus of the ongoing inquiry.[The Guardian]
- Nassif fled Australia for Lebanon in 2022 and is not expected to appear before the commission to address the allegations.[The Guardian]