Controversial MP Eleni Petinos dumped

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has announced that MP Eleni Petinos has been stood down following allegations of bullying.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has announced that MP Eleni Petinos has been dumped as a minister following allegations of bullying.

Ms Petinos said she was “proud” of her work as a minister, but added that if she had unintentionally offended anyone or made them uncomfortable, then “I am truly sorry”.

In a statement issued on Sunday night, he said the decision had been made after further matters concerning Ms Petinos were brought to his attention.

“Today I spoke with the minister small business and fair trading Eleni Petinos after some further matters concerning her were brought to my attention,” Mr Perrottet said.

“In light of these matters, Ms Petinos’ service as a Minister will cease with immediate effect, and I will write to the Governor in this regard tomorrow.

“Minister customer service and digital government Victor Dominello will assume Ms Petinos’ portfolio responsibilities.”

It came after Mr Perrottet on Friday declared he has “zero tolerance” for bullying and harassment among ministers and staffers, warning that “people will lose their jobs” if he sees or is made aware of unacceptable behaviour.

Ms Petinos has denied all allegations made against her.

The declaration was made after a former adviser alleged Ms Petinos called them “retarded” and “stupid” and threatened them for making a small mistake.

“The ministers shouted that she would ‘kill me’ for an email I wrote to PO addressing small business/fair trading mentions in Chris Minns’ budget-in-reply speech,” the email claimed, according toThe Australian.

“It was a sustained barrage of belittling and invidious comments for two hours, which also included her telling me that I was ‘basically useless’ and ‘totally worthless’.”

Other staffers alleged there was “yelling and swearing” in the office, with at least seven staffers leaving the office since September, The Daily Telegraph reported.

Eleni Petinos, on the right, walks next to NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet. Picture: Jeremy Piper/NCA NewsWire

It prompted Mr Perrottet to speak to Ms Petinos on an earlier occasion: “I’ve made it incredibly clear expectations as relation to workplace practice and procedure.”

Ms Petinos has previously strenuously denied the bullying allegations, and when approached by The Australian last Wednesday, said: “I reject any allegations of bullying or improper conduct.”

In a statement late on Sunday Ms Petinos said she wanted to pursue politics “to make a positive difference” and would stay on as the member for Miranda.

“I am proud of my work while I served the people of NSW as Minister small business and Minister fair trading,” she wrote.

“I fought hard for small businesses who are the lifeblood of NSW and I will continue to advocate for them regardless of my role.

“The intense pressures and stresses of such important portfolios are significant for both staff and their Minister. I thank my staff for their efforts in supporting me to deliver for the people of NSW.

“I would never intentionally offend anyone or make them feel uncomfortable, and if I did I am truly sorry,” Ms Petinos said.

NSW Minister Small Business Eleni Petinos has been stood down from her position, Premier Dominic Perrottet announced today.

In 2018, Ms Petinos was involved in a sexting scandal with the NSW Treasurer Matt Kean.

The explicit messages were made public when they were posted online by Mr Kean’s then-partner Caitlin Keage.

In the texts, which took place shortly after Christmas, Mr Kean messaged Ms Petinos while she said she was “playing a board game with my family”, saying he’s “tempted to drive down to see you”.

“Miss me huh?” she asks.

“Yup, really need to f**k you,” he responds.

Mr Kean said at the time: “I am deeply sorry my relationship with Caitlin has ended in such a spectacular and sad fashion. I wish her all the best.”