Gareth Ward: Kiama MP committed to trial for alleged historic sexual violence

Kiama MP Gareth Ward has been committed to stand trial by a South Coast magistrate as the politician fights charges of alleged historic sexual violence. Find out what happened in court.

Kiama MP Gareth Ward has been committed to trial by a South Coast magistrate as the politician fights charges of alleged historic sexual violence.

The 41-year-old former Liberal member was charged with three counts of assault with acts of indecency and one count each of sexual intercourse without consent and common assault.

Police allege that he indecently assaulted a 17-year-old boy at Meroo Meadow in February 2013, and sexually abused a 27-year-old man in Sydney in September 2015, according to a statement.

Appearing via video link at Nowra Local Court on Friday, Mr Ward was committed to stand trial by Magistrate Lisa Viney. A date for the trial will be set during a call over appearance on September 14.

Mr Ward nodded silently as Ms Viney delivered her instructions.

Gareth Ward MP speaking with residents in Kangaroo Valley. Picture: Tim Hunter.

The local member has so far vocally rejected the accusations of sexual violence.

Lawyer Robert Foster, who is representing Gareth Ward, outside Nowra Local Court on May 17. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Solicitor Robert Foster refused to answer questions from the media as he left the court on Friday.

Ward will remain on bail.