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Memory lapses, fake invoices and a reprimand: Key moments from ICAC
Australia🏛️ PoliticsLean Progressive8/15/2026

Memory lapses, fake invoices and a reprimand: Key moments from ICAC

The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) continues its investigation into alleged illegal political donations and potential influence-peddling linked to fugitive property developer Jean Nassif. During recent hearings, lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood faced scrutiny for frequent responses of 'I don't know' and 'I don't recall,' including a moment where he claimed he couldn't remember details from a phone call. He also made a provocative remark during the session, prompting a reprimand from Commissioner Fabian Gleeson. The inquiry revealed a text exchange where Greenwood referred to 'filthy schools money' and 'f***ing whinging,' which counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer suggested might relate to Catholic Schools NSW funds being funneled into Liberal Party recruitment. Additionally, Dallas McInerney, a key figure in the case, testified about his communications with federal Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, including a message expressing intent to 'shake down Angus for 10k.'

Lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood admitted to the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) that he paid substantial kickbacks to Jean-Claude Perrottet from a contract secured with Catholic Schools NSW. On Wednesday, Greenwood, appearing on his third day of evidence in Operation Rosny, stated he agreed to hand over 50 percent of the ongoing retainer from his consultancy, JPG Advisory, to Perrottet. Greenwood explained that he wished to boost the income of his close friend, noting that Perrottet, a key member of the right-wing Catholic group known as the Reformers, earned a salary of approximately $50,000 while employed at Medallion Financial. The commission also heard that Greenwood agreed to provide a one-off payment equal to 10 percent of the retainer to Robert Assaf, co-founder of the Reformers. The ICAC is investigating allegations that prohibited political donations were funneled through third parties to support the Liberal-aligned faction and advance the interests of fugitive property developer Jean Nassif. Greenwood told the inquiry that Perrottet acted as his agent to convince Dallas McInerney, the chief executive of Catholic Schools NSW, to sign a contract with JPG Advisory in 2021. This followed the termination of a prior agreement between the schools body and Greenwood’s former firm, Beckington. When asked by counsel assisting Dr Peggy Dwyer SC how he accounted for these payments, Greenwood stated he viewed the 50 percent fee as a fair commission structure for securing a client. He indicated he would claim the invoices as business expenses for tax purposes, describing the documentation as internal and stating that the specific description on the invoice, such as buying a flamingo, was irrelevant to how he processed the transaction. During cross-examination, Greenwood addressed a text message exchange with Perrottet in which he referenced giving him "filthy schools money" and tolerating his complaining. Greenwood dismissed the comment as a "stupid joke" intended to rile his friend, denying that it referred to a dodgy arrangement where Catholic Schools NSW funds were passed on to fund Liberal Party recruitment work. However, Dr Dwyer argued the exchange demonstrated that key Reformers players were aware that sham arrangements were being used to disguise political donations. The commission noted that Perrottet deleted the message from his phone after replying that it should not be put in writing. Greenwood also discussed urging his Beckington business partner, Christian Ellis, to pay Perrottet from the Beckington business account. After receiving complaints from Perrottet about unpaid work for the Reformers, including a message stating he had left his job under the pretense of getting paid, Greenwood instructed Ellis to release the full amount. Greenwood cited money coming in from a client codenamed "Concord," which referred to Jean Nassif. Although Greenwood initially claimed not to recall the specific messages, he suggested he was being sympathetic to his friend and was unaware of any formal arrangement for Perrottet to receive compensation for Reformers work through Beckington. Dallas McInerney, who has stood aside from his role as CEO of Catholic Schools NSW, provided evidence on Thursday and Friday regarding the organization’s dealings. McInerney maintained that he performed due diligence when negotiating the initial contract with Beckington in 2019, although he acknowledged a "missing step" when the firm provided an Australian Business Number registered to Ellis’s sister, Dr Samantha Ellis, rather than the company itself. McInerney denied allegations that the contract was merely a vehicle to funnel money to the Reformers, insisting he terminated the arrangement because Ellis changed domicile and the board felt they were not receiving value for money. He rejected claims that he met with Greenwood to coordinate their ICAC testimony, a suggestion raised by Robert Assaf. The inquiry has examined whether Catholic Schools NSW, which distributes federal funding to nearly 600 diocesan schools, used consultancies to make undeclared political donations exceeding legal caps. Federal Education Minister Jason Clare described the allegations as "very concerning." The Independent Education Union (IEU) NSW and ACT branch secretary Carol Matthews criticized the lack of transparency, noting that while the government scrutinizes individual school spending of $3.8 billion, similar oversight is absent for organizations like Catholic Schools NSW. She advocated for broader legislative provisions to ensure public funding is not diverted from its intended purpose. Former sector leaders expressed concern that the allegations would undermine trust and complicate future funding negotiations. Michael Bezzina, a former director of Catholic schools, stated that those close to the sector are disappointed and fearful, adding that if the allegations are proven, there is no defense and accountability is required. Brian Lacey, a former principal and board member of the Catholic Education Commission NSW, emphasized the negative impact on morale, noting that teachers are struggling financially while millions in public funding are subject to scrutiny. The ICAC is also investigating whether donations linked to Nassif were exchanged for political favors, including efforts to damage the career of former Liberal minister David Elliott, who is scheduled to take the stand following McInerney. The commission continues to examine the extent to which sham invoices and consulting agreements were utilized to obscure prohibited donations.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 3 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

10 reports

The Age logoThe AgeIndependentProgressiveFactual 90Objective 658/12/2026
Jean-Claude Perrottet given ‘kickback’ from Catholic Schools NSW contract, ICAC hears

During the ICAC Operation Rosny hearings, lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood testified that he provided 'kickbacks' to his close friend Jean-Claude Perrottet from a contract secured by Perrottet with Catholic Schools NSW. Greenwood explained that he paid Perrottet 50% of JPG Advisory's retainer as a reward for helping secure the contract, which Perrottet facilitated using his connections with Catholic Schools NSW leadership. Greenwood also mentioned paying another 10% to Reformers co-founder Robert Assaf. He justified these payments as legitimate business expenses, referring to them internally as a 'commission structure.' The testimony includes claims that Perrottet was underpaid at his job and that he was compensated through other channels, including funds linked to a disgraced property developer named Concord.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the actions of Jean-Claude Perrottet and Jeremy Greenwood in a manner that suggests unethical financial arrangements benefiting a right-wing group (Reformers). While the subject involves potential corruption, the framing emphasizes the personal and financial motivations behind the

Why factuality (90): This article provides detailed testimony from lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood regarding kickbacks to Jean-Claude Perrottet, including specifics about the contract, financial arrangements, and the perceived legality of the payments. These details are corroborated by multiple sources and align with the broa

Why objectivity (65): While the facts are presented clearly, the article frames the situation in a way that suggests questionable ethics, particularly through the portrayal of Greenwood's actions and the implications of the 'kickbacks.' This introduces a slight bias in the interpretation of events.

The Age logoThe AgeIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 408/10/2026
The $2m ‘bribe’, contact codename and London flight: Inside the world of the ICAC’s mystery man

The article discusses the ongoing investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) into alleged corruption involving Jeremy Greenwood, a lobbyist who recently returned to Australia after meeting with Christian Ellis in London. Greenwood, a key figure in Operation Rosny, is accused of involvement in schemes including diverting funds from Catholic Schools NSW to a conservative Liberal Party faction called the Reformers through sham contracts. Greenwood has been questioned by the ICAC and faced difficult questioning, showing signs of frustration and memory lapses. He is linked to multiple organizations and individuals under scrutiny, including the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney and former politicians.

Bias read (Center): The article presents the findings and testimonies of the ICAC investigation without overtly favoring any particular political perspective. It reports on allegations against Greenwood and his connections to various entities, including political figures, but does not exhibit clear bias toward one side

Why factuality (90): The article accurately reports the $135,000 salary paid to Robert Assaf for factional Liberal Party work, citing text messages presented to the ICAC. It provides direct quotes from the commission proceedings and includes specific details such as the involvement of Jean-Claude Perrottet and Christian

Why objectivity (40): The article presents the information neutrally based on the ICAC proceedings but includes strong editorializing in the reader letters section, such as 'Heads must roll at Catholic Schools NSW after revelations' and 'We must hope the board of Catholic Schools NSW is at work.' These statements introdu

ABC News (Australia) logoABC News (Australia)State / PublicCenterFactual 85Objective 808/15/2026
Memory lapses, fake invoices and a reprimand: Key moments from ICAC

The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) continues its investigation into alleged illegal political donations and potential influence-peddling linked to fugitive property developer Jean Nassif. During recent hearings, lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood faced scrutiny for frequent responses of 'I don't know' and 'I don't recall,' including a moment where he claimed he couldn't remember details from a phone call. He also made a provocative remark during the session, prompting a reprimand from Commissioner Fabian Gleeson. The inquiry revealed a text exchange where Greenwood referred to 'filthy schools money' and 'f***ing whinging,' which counsel assisting Peggy Dwyer suggested might relate to Catholic Schools NSW funds being funneled into Liberal Party recruitment. Additionally, Dallas McInerney, a key figure in the case, testified about his communications with federal Opposition Leader Angus Taylor, including a message expressing intent to 'shake down Angus for 10k.'

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the ICAC proceedings, focusing on the testimonies and actions of individuals under investigation without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the legal and ethical implications of the alleged misconduct without taking a clear ideological slant

Why factuality (85): The article provides a summary of recent developments in Operation Rosny, including specific quotes from Jeremy Greenwood and descriptions of interactions during the ICAC hearing. It references the allegations involving Jean Nassif and political donations, aligning with the cross-source consensus. T

Why objectivity (80): The tone remains neutral, presenting facts and quotes without overt bias. However, there is a slight editorial tilt in describing Mr. Greenwood's behavior as 'making the job of counsel assisting a struggle,' which implies judgment rather than purely reporting facts.

The Sydney Morning Herald logoThe Sydney Morning HeraldIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 758/14/2026
Catholic Schools NSW boss says he did ‘due diligence’. His allies gave him someone else’s ABN

Catholic Schools NSW head Dallas McInerney faced scrutiny from the Independent Commission Against Corruption over a contract with a Liberal-aligned consultancy firm, Beckington, which provided him with an ABN belonging to someone else. McInerney claimed he performed 'due diligence' but admitted it was ineffective, as the ABN was actually registered to his sister, Dr Samantha Ellis. The commission is investigating whether funds were funneled through Beckington to the Reformers, a right-wing Catholic faction within the Liberal Party. McInerney denied providing money to the Reformers but acknowledged the contract lasted 1.5 years before being terminated. The firm's founder, Christian Ellis, was linked to former minister Damien Tudehope, who was dismissed for factional activities.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the controversy around a Liberal-aligned consultancy and potential misuse of public resources for a right-wing faction. While the subject involves political figures and institutions, the framing emphasizes accountability and ethical concerns, aligning more with left-leaning media.

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports the details of Dallas McInerney's testimony before the ICAC regarding the ABN mix-up involving Sam Mooy Beckington and Christian Ellis. It cites specific statements made by counsel assisting Juliet Curtin and McInerney himself. The information aligns with what might be

Why objectivity (75): The article presents the facts neutrally but uses phrases like 'fledgling government relations firm set up by Liberal factional allies' and 'right-wing Liberal powerbroker' which could imply bias against the Liberal party. While it quotes both parties involved, the framing suggests a particular pers

The Age logoThe AgeIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 758/14/2026
Catholic Schools NSW boss says he did ‘due diligence’. His allies gave him someone else’s ABN

Catholic Schools NSW head Dallas McInerney faced scrutiny from the Independent Commission Against Corruption over a contract with a Liberal-aligned consultancy firm, Beckington, which provided him with an ABN belonging to someone else. McInerney claimed he performed 'due diligence' but admitted it was ineffective, as the ABN was actually registered to his sister, Dr Samantha Ellis. The commission is investigating whether funds were funneled through Beckington to the Reformers, a right-wing Catholic faction within the Liberal Party. McInerney denied providing money to the Reformers but acknowledged the contract lasted 1.5 years before being terminated. The firm's founder, Christian Ellis, reportedly thanked McInerney despite the termination.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the controversy around a Liberal-aligned consultancy and potential misuse of public resources for a right-wing faction. While the subject involves political figures and institutions, the framing emphasizes accountability and ethical concerns, aligning more with left-leaning media.

Why factuality (85): This article mirrors the content of item 0 almost verbatim, suggesting it is likely sourced from the same press release or report. It accurately conveys the details of McInerney's testimony and the nature of the ABN issue. As with item 0, the primary source document does not confirm these specific a

Why objectivity (75): Like item 0, this article uses similar phrasing that could be seen as biased towards certain political groups. The neutrality is somewhat compromised by the choice of words such as 'Liberal factional allies' and 'right-wing Liberal powerbroker', which may influence reader perception despite presenti

The Age logoThe AgeIndependentProgressiveFactual 85Objective 758/10/2026
No memory, no party membership and a missing partner: Jeremy Greenwood’s first day at the ICAC

On August 10, 2026, Jeremy Greenwood, a former political staffer and lobbyist, appeared before the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) during an inquiry into alleged corruption involving the Liberal Party. Greenwood, who was accompanied by his lawyer Bryan Wrench, exhibited signs of confusion and memory loss, claiming he was not a member of the Liberal Party and had no recollection of his work with his lobbying firm Beckington, which was contracted by Catholic Schools NSW. He admitted to receiving emails about his suspension from the party but claimed he was unaware of his membership status. When questioned about the nature of his work for Catholic Schools NSW, Greenwood stated that most of his work was verbal and he did not engage in much typing. Counsel assisting the inquiry asked who could provide information about his work, to which Greenwood suggested contacting his former business partner Christian Ellis or James Tudehope, both of whom were unavailable.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the inquiry as examining 'branch-stacking activities by the right of the Liberal Party' and highlights the potential misuse of illegal donations. While it presents Greenwood's testimony neutrally, the emphasis on the Liberal Party's involvement and the implications of the alleged

Why factuality (85): The article provides specific details about Jeremy Greenwood's appearance, his lawyer Bryan Wrench, and his testimony regarding his lack of Liberal Party membership and memory issues. These claims align with the cross-source consensus found in Article 1 and 2, which mention similar themes around the

Why objectivity (75): The article uses phrases like 'explosive corruption inquiry' and 'casually dressed,' which may imply judgment or bias toward Greenwood. The tone appears somewhat dismissive of Greenwood's claims, suggesting possible skepticism rather than neutrality.

ABC News (Australia) logoABC News (Australia)State / PublicCenterFactual 75Objective 808/12/2026
NSW Liberal faction's 'filthy schools money' text a 'stupid joke', ICAC hears

The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is investigating allegations that prohibited political donations were funneled through third parties to support a right-wing Liberal-aligned faction known as the NSW Reformers. Lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood, who is connected to the faction, admitted sending a text message to Jean-Claude Perrottet, brother of former Premier Dominic Perrottet, referencing 'filthy schools money.' The message, which was shared during the ICAC inquiry, suggested payments from Catholic Schools NSW (CSNSW) were being used to fund Liberal Party recruitment efforts. Greenwood described the text as a 'stupid joke,' claiming it was meant to provoke Perrottet. Counsel assisting the commission argued that the message demonstrated knowledge of the fraudulent arrangements, while Greenwood denied any wrongdoing.

Bias read (Center): The article presents both sides of the issue: the ICAC's investigation into potential corruption and Greenwood's defense of the text as a joke. There is no clear ideological slant in the framing of the story, which focuses on the legal proceedings and the conflicting accounts rather than taking a立场.

Why factuality (75): The article reports on an ongoing ICAC investigation into alleged prohibited donations to a Liberal-aligned faction, citing a text exchange between Jeremy Greenwood and Jean-Claude Perrottet. It mentions the use of companies, sham invoices, and consulting agreements to disguise donations, aligning w

Why objectivity (80): The article presents facts neutrally, focusing on the allegations and the ICAC's role without overt bias. It includes quotes from multiple sources and avoids emotionally charged language, maintaining a balanced tone.

The Sydney Morning Herald logoThe Sydney Morning HeraldIndependentProgressiveFactual 75Objective 608/12/2026
Jean-Claude Perrottet given ‘kickback’ from Catholic Schools NSW contract, ICAC hears

During the ICAC Operation Rosny hearings, lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood testified that he provided 'kickbacks' to his close friend Jean-Claude Perrottet in exchange for helping secure a contract with Catholic Schools NSW. Greenwood claimed that Perrottet, who worked for Medallion Financial, received 50% of JPG Advisory's retainer as compensation for facilitating the deal. Greenwood also mentioned giving a one-time payment to Reformers co-founder Robert Assaf. Greenwood defended these payments as legitimate commissions and suggested they were necessary to ensure Perrottet's cooperation. The testimony comes amid allegations of improper influence and financial arrangements involving Perrottet and other individuals.

Bias read (Progressive): The article presents allegations of corruption involving a prominent figure (Jean-Claude Perrottet), a right-wing organization (Reformers), and potential conflicts of interest. The framing emphasizes the nature of the alleged kickbacks and the involvement of a politically aligned group, suggesting a

Why factuality (75): Similar to Article 0, this piece covers the same allegations about Catholic Schools NSW and teacher concerns over transparency. It references the ICAC inquiry and quotes officials, but lacks the detailed testimonies found in Article 1. The alignment with other sources supports its factual basis, but

Why objectivity (60): The tone is similar to Article 0, suggesting concern over the impact of the allegations on schools and teachers. Phrases like 'actions of a few within the sector are undermining the work of its schools and teachers' carry a judgmental undertone, affecting objectivity.

The Age logoThe AgeIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 608/11/2026
‘No defence of this’: A reckoning in Catholic schools as teachers want answers

A corruption inquiry into Catholic Schools NSW has raised concerns about potential misuse of public funds, including allegations that $165,000 was directed to Liberal Party operatives. The organization, which manages federal funding for nearly 600 Catholic schools, faces scrutiny over unreported political donations and possible violations of legal donation limits. Former leaders warn these issues could jeopardize future funding agreements and damage the reputation of Catholic education. The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) is investigating these claims, with Dallas McInerney, the former CEO of Catholic Schools NSW, set to testify. Teachers' unions have called for increased transparency in how public money is handled by organizations like Catholic Schools NSW, which distribute funds on behalf of Catholic diocesan schools. These developments follow other investigations into potential misconduct in the education sector.

Bias read (Center): The article presents allegations of corruption involving public funding and political donations but does not exhibit overt bias toward either side. It includes perspectives from multiple stakeholders, including the union, former officials, and the government, without favoring one narrative over the.

Why factuality (75): The article reports on allegations of political donations and potential corruption involving Catholic Schools NSW, citing the involvement of former leader Dallas McInerney and the Federal Education Minister's response. While these claims align with the cross-source consensus, some details like the e

Why objectivity (60): The article presents the allegations in a somewhat critical light, using phrases like 'under pressure from its own teachers' and 'actions of a few within the sector are undermining the work of its schools and teachers,' which may imply judgment rather than neutrality.

The Sydney Morning Herald logoThe Sydney Morning HeraldIndependentProgressiveFactual 75Objective 608/11/2026
‘No defence of this’: A reckoning in Catholic schools as teachers want answers

A corruption inquiry is examining allegations that Catholic Schools NSW, which manages federal funding for nearly 600 Catholic schools, funneled $165,000 to right-wing Liberal Party operatives. The organization's chief executive, Dallas McInerney, has stepped down and will appear before the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC). Federal Education Minister Jason Clare called the allegations 'very concerning.' Teachers' unions argue there is insufficient oversight of funding processes for non-government schools, raising concerns that public funds may be misused. The controversy follows other recent scandals involving education officials and private schools breaching laws against profiting from government funding.

Bias read (Progressive): The article frames the scandal as a systemic issue affecting public funding integrity, emphasizing concerns raised by teachers' unions and highlighting the potential misuse of taxpayer money. While the allegations involve right-wing operatives, the focus is on holding institutions accountable and re

Why factuality (75): This article mirrors the content of Article 0, covering the same allegations and quoting similar statements from officials. While it aligns with the cross-source consensus, it lacks additional details and does not reference the specific testimonies from the ICAC hearings that appear in Article 1.

Why objectivity (60): The language used is similar to Article 0, implying a negative assessment of the situation and the potential consequences for the sector. This affects the overall balance of the reporting.

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