Former Deputy Premier John Barilaro to fight charges after alleged clash with cameraman

The former NSW deputy premier will fight charges, which allege he assaulted a TV cameraman outside a bar, in a two-day hearing.

Former Deputy Premier John Barilaro will face a hearing that could last two days into allegations he assault a news cameraman outside a bar in Manly. File picture: Gaye Gerard

Allegations that former deputy Premier John Barilaro attacked a news cameraman outside a Manly bar will be defended at a hearing that could last up to two days, Manly Local Court has heard.

Mr Barilaro, 51, who lives on the northern beaches, has denied allegations he assaulted freelance camera operator Matt Costello near the Manly Wharf Hotel on July 23.

The former politician also denies damaging Mr Costello’s video camera during an alleged incident while Mr Barilaro was on a Saturday night out to dinner with friends.

He was not required in court today.

Mr Barilaro had previously pleaded not guilty to one count each of common assault and

maliciously or recklessly damage property.

John Barilaro has denied assaulting a cameraman and damaging his equipment. File picture: Gaye Gerard

Danny Eid, the lawyer representing former NSW Minister John Barilaro at Manly Court, said the hearing into the assault allegations could last two days. File picture: Jeremy Piper

Mobile phone footage circulated online after the alleged incident appeared to show Mr Barilaro and the cameraman grappling and pushing while Costello tries to film the former NSW Nationals leader.

Mr Barilaro’s alleged clash with the cameraman happened as a parliamentary inquiry began probing the recently retired politician’s selection for a $500,000 a year trade job to the US.

He also Mr Barilaro spoke on air with 2GB two days after the alleged assault claiming he had been “harassed” by the media.

Barilaro resigned from parliament in October 2021.

Mr Barilaro’s lawyer Danny Eid told Manly court on Wednesday that the hearing could run for between one and two days.

Magistrate Alexander Mijovich adjourned the matters to the Downing Centre Local Court on December 15, to set a date for the hearing, expected sometime next year.