Auburn deputy mayor Salim Mehajer allegedly failed to declare financial interest in developments

DEPUTY mayor Salim Mehajer allegedly voted on changes to a development that added $1million to its value without declaring his financial interests.

CONTROVERSIAL Auburn deputy mayor Salim Mehajer is before court fighting for his political future over allegations he did not reveal his financial interest in developments he voted on in council meetings.

The office of local government has taken Mr Mehajer to the civil and administrative tribunal over his presence at three council meetings on 21 November 2012 and December 4 and 11 2013, where a planning proposal for a Mary Street property was discussed to increase the height and floor space.

Salim Mehajer arrives at the tribunal hearing in Sydney today.

The NCAT heard Mr Mehajer did not disclose to council that the property was owned by a company he had a 90 per cent interest in.

Anna Mitchelmore for the Office of Local Government said the changes to height and floor space increased the value of the Mary street property “in the vicinity of $1 million”.

Salim Mehajer and his wife Aysha’s extravagant wedding brought their street to a standstill, sparking a backlash from residents and Auburn councillors.

Auburn Deputy Mayor Salim Mehajer arrives for a council meeting in his white Ferrari.

Ms Mitchelmore said the government was calling for Mr Mehajer’s suspension or disqualification for public office.

“The consequences in my submission should be significant... at least a suspension if not a disqualification for a period of time,” Ms Mitchelmore said.

Stephen Free for Mr Mehajer said he would argue he was exempt from making a pecuniary interest disclosure.

Failing to disclose an interest that breaches the local government act could see Mr Mehajer suspended. The hearing continues.

Originally published as Auburn deputy mayor Salim Mehajer allegedly failed to declare financial interest in developments