Ex-Minister Damien Tudehope Questioned by Icac Over Leaked Report

Former Liberal finance minister Damien Tudehope was questioned by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (Icac) on Tuesday, August 5, 2026, concerning a leaked draft parliamentary report. The examination, led by Icac counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer, focused on Tudehope's alleged involvement with a document related to branch stacking activities in the Hills area. The bombshell revelation occurred in the final five minutes of Tudehope's testimony when he was presented with an email he sent in February 2023. This email attached a draft parliamentary report that had been leaked, pertaining to the "Reformers," a group identified as central to Icac's Operation Rosny. Operation Rosny is an ongoing investigation by the Icac into allegations of corruption, specifically focusing on branch stacking within political parties in New South Wales. Branch stacking involves enrolling large numbers of new members into a political party's branches, often without their knowledge or consent, to influence internal party elections and pre-selections. The leaked report Tudehope allegedly forwarded was prepared by the Reformers, a faction within the Liberal Party known for its influence and internal maneuvering. Tudehope, a prominent figure in the rightwing faction of the Liberal Party, has held significant positions, including finance minister, making his involvement in the alleged distribution of sensitive, leaked documents a matter of considerable interest to the Icac. The commission's investigation aims to uncover the extent of any improper conduct, including the misuse of information and potential breaches of parliamentary privilege. The timing of the email's disclosure, late in Tudehope's questioning, suggests it could be a pivotal piece of evidence in establishing the chain of communication and knowledge regarding the leaked report. The Icac's mandate is to investigate corruption, waste, and abuse of public office in New South Wales, and its findings can lead to significant political repercussions and recommendations for legislative reform. Tudehope's testimony is part of a broader inquiry into the alleged branch stacking activities, which have been a recurring issue in Australian politics, particularly within the Liberal Party in New South Wales. The investigation seeks to determine if any individuals or groups acted improperly in obtaining, disseminating, or utilizing the leaked report, and whether such actions compromised the integrity of political processes or public administration. The former minister's role in forwarding the document raises questions about his awareness of its sensitive nature and the potential consequences of its distribution. The Icac's proceedings are public, and the revelations from Tudehope's examination are expected to be closely scrutinized by political observers and the public alike, given the significant political standing of the individuals involved and the gravity of the allegations being investigated.