Craig Kelly’s electorate officer Frank Zumbo in workplace probe
Controversial government backbencher Craig Kelly’s prominent adviser has fronted court and could face charges over allegations of workplace misconduct inside the federal MP’s suburban electorate office.
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Controversial government backbencher Craig Kelly’s right-hand man has fronted court accused of harassing young female co-workers inside the federal MP’s suburban electorate office.
Frank Zumbo appeared at Sutherland Local Court on Wednesday after a three-month investigation resulted in police slapping him with a personal violence order to protect a woman who made a complaint about his alleged workplace conduct in April.
Zumbo strenuously denies all allegations of misconduct.
Senior lawyer Michael Moussa told the court there had been “some discussion” of potential criminal charges against the former University of New South Wales business law professor.
“The allegations stem from a workplace relations complaint involving a young woman,” Mr Moussa said.
“It’s in circumstances where police have had three months to investigate, and we will be vigorously defending the application and any potential charges which may or may not eventuate.”
Mr Kelly declined to comment on allegations the claims against Zumbo pertain to his employment in the federal MP’s office.
“My understanding is that it’s a private civil dispute between Mr Zumbo and a former employee, and there are no criminal charges,” Mr Kelly stated.
“I can only deal with the situation as it currently is, which is a civil dispute.”
In court police prosecutor Rick Stacey sought an adjournment for Sutherland detectives to determine whether or not charges would proceed in addition to the personal violence order.
“I’ve been instructed that they are seeking further legal advice in relation to the criminal proceedings against the defendant,” Sgt Stacey said.
Zumbo’s matter will return to court on September 16 and he will not be required to appear in person.
“Mr Zumbo is a former academic who has contributed significantly to Australian consumer law and is still an adviser to the honourable Craig Kelly,” Mr Moussa said.
“He has served the community for a number of years and we will not let his lifelong commitment to the public be diminished by these claims.”
Armed against the grey day with an umbrella, Zumbo was silent throughout his brief appearance before Magistrate Michael Connell, only standing once to indicate his presence in the court before the matter was adjourned.