‘Oh shit’: Labor councillor worried about ICAC inquiry after attending 2021 Liberal fundraiser, watchdog hears

Labor councillor Sharangan Maheswaran harboured significant anxieties about facing an inquiry from the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) after attending a Liberal Party fundraiser in 2021. These concerns were brought to light through text messages presented to the ICAC during proceedings on Monday. The catalyst for Maheswaran's alarm appears to have been an "incendiary speech" delivered by a New South Wales Member of Parliament, which subsequently led to allegations being referred to the anti-corruption watchdog. Upon hearing about the speech, Maheswaran is quoted in a text message as exclaiming, "Oh shit, did he touch on me?" This immediate reaction underscores his apprehension about potential repercussions stemming from his presence at the event.

Further text exchanges revealed Maheswaran's request to have "that invoice for the Dom lunch fixed up." This suggests a desire to rectify or obscure financial documentation associated with the fundraiser, which likely involved Dominic Perrottet, the then-Premier of New South Wales. The "Dom lunch" points to a specific event where Perrottet was present, and Maheswaran's concern about its associated invoice indicates a potential issue with campaign finance transparency or reporting. The revelation highlights the scrutiny political figures face regarding their financial dealings and associations.

Maheswaran reportedly had "an explanation ready" for his attendance at the Liberal fundraiser, indicating he anticipated potential questions. However, his particular worry centred on a photograph taken with Premier Perrottet. This concern was reportedly prompted by what he described as a "dumb" action by Christian Ellis. While the precise nature of Ellis's action and its direct link to Maheswaran's ICAC fears are not fully elaborated in the provided information, it suggests an element of imprudence or a perceived misstep that exacerbated Maheswaran's unease about his public association with the Liberal event.

The ICAC, established to investigate corruption, maladministration, and misconduct in public administration within New South Wales, is examining the circumstances surrounding this event. The proceedings on Monday aimed to ascertain the extent of Maheswaran's awareness and apprehension regarding the implications of his attendance at the Liberal fundraiser, particularly in light of the subsequent referral of allegations to the commission. The exchange of text messages serves as crucial evidence in the ICAC's ongoing investigation into matters related to political fundraising, potential conflicts of interest, and the conduct of public officials.