Liberal operative claims $1,000 offer for 'grubby rumour' story was not serious

The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in New South Wales has heard testimony regarding an alleged attempt to influence media coverage through a payment to a political operative. Sharangan Maheswaran, identified as a Liberal operative, told the ICAC that a $1,000 offer made to lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood was "not a serious offer." This offer was reportedly made to secure media attention for an unsubstantiated rumour concerning David Elliott, a former Liberal minister in the New South Wales government. The alleged rumour involved claims of an extramarital affair and a breach of Covid-19 restrictions. The ICAC is currently investigating allegations of corruption linked to fugitive property developer Jean Nassif, and this incident appears to be part of that broader inquiry.

Jean Nassif is a significant figure in the Australian property development industry, and his business dealings have attracted considerable attention and scrutiny. The ICAC's mandate is to investigate potential corrupt conduct by public officials and those who may seek to improperly influence them. The offer of $1,000, while not a substantial sum in absolute terms, is significant in the context of potentially paying for the dissemination of damaging information, even if unsubstantiated, to influence public perception or political outcomes. The proposition was allegedly made by a lawyer representing Nassif, indicating a potential connection between Nassif's interests and the attempt to generate negative publicity for a government minister.

During the ICAC hearing, Maheswaran was presented with a message he had sent to Jeremy Greenwood, which stated, "I was not joking." This evidence directly contradicts his assertion that the offer was not serious, suggesting a more deliberate intent to pursue the story. The incident raises concerns about the ethical boundaries of political campaigning and the potential for paid intermediaries to manipulate media narratives. The ICAC's investigation aims to ascertain the full extent of any alleged corrupt practices, including whether the offer constituted an attempt to bribe or improperly influence media reporting. The focus remains on the actions taken to generate coverage for the "grubby rumour," regardless of its veracity, and the individuals involved in orchestrating this effort. The proceedings are ongoing, with further evidence expected to illuminate the motivations and actions of all parties implicated.