Jeremy Greenwood, a prominent lobbyist and political operator, has been appearing before the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) as part of Operation Rosny, an ongoing investigation into corruption within New South Wales politics. The latest developments reveal that Greenwood allegedly instructed the head of NSW Catholic Schools to avoid an inquiry and sought to have Jean-Nassif cover the costs of a trip to Fiji for Jean-Claude Perrottet, a key figure in the Reformers party. According to reports from The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, Greenwood admitted during his testimony that he arranged for a “shit sheet” targeting former police minister David Elliott, aiming to undermine the politician. The document, intended to damage Elliott's reputation, was commissioned by Greenwood on behalf of Jean Nassif, a disgraced developer known for his animosity toward Elliott. Despite claims that the dossier was meant to protect Greenwood’s business interests, the ICAC has scrutinized the motives behind its creation. During his appearance, Greenwood expressed unwavering loyalty to his friend Jean-Claude Perrottet, stating he would provide financial assistance from his personal accounts. However, he claimed to have no recollection of any payments originating from hotelier Michael O’Hara, who had previously pledged support to the Reformers. The commission noted that O’Hara’s involvement remains under investigation. Greenwood also faced scrutiny over a late-night phone call from his former business associate, Christian Ellis, shortly after delivering his initial testimony. The conversation, conducted via the encrypted messaging app Signal, was described by Greenwood as a simple welfare check. Ellis, who is currently residing in the United Kingdom and has refused to testify, is considered a person of interest in the case. Following his private testimony in June 2025, Greenwood met with Jean-Claude Perrottet at the Oaks, a pub in Double Bay. Both men placed their phones at a separate table to avoid surveillance, according to the ICAC. While Greenwood denied arranging the meeting, he acknowledged that they frequently visit the establishment together. The commission emphasized that disclosing such information is a criminal offense once the commissioner has deemed it confidential. Further revelations include evidence that Jean-Claude Perrottet secured a high-paying position at Catholic Schools NSW, with a base salary of $165,000. This comes amid allegations that the younger brother of former Premier Dominic Perrottet was evading a parliamentary inquiry by fleeing to Fiji. The ICAC has learned that the fugitive received $25,000 to fund his travel expenses, with plans to have Jean Nassif eventually cover the cost of his stay. This arrangement appears to have been orchestrated to circumvent legal proceedings. Catholic Schools NSW, which manages approximately $3.8 billion in annual public funds allocated to religious education institutions, has been linked to several individuals associated with the Reformers. Among them are Robert Assaf and Dylan Whitelaw, both of whom have been named in previous investigations. The organization’s former CEO, Dallas McInerney, is set to appear as a witness tomorrow, facing questions regarding the role of Reformers-linked figures within the institution. The ICAC continues to gather evidence against key players in the political and corporate spheres, with the focus remaining on uncovering connections between lobbying activities, financial dealings, and institutional influence. As the inquiry progresses, further details are expected to emerge, particularly concerning the extent of collaboration between lobbyists, politicians, and business leaders. The outcome of these hearings could significantly impact the political landscape in New South Wales.
★
Keep the news honest.
ObjectiveNews is reader-funded and ad-free — we show you the bias instead of hiding it. Support independent journalism for €4/month.
Become a Supporter
Australia
