NSW Police won’t pursue minister rape claim

NSW Police has closed its investigation into a rape allegation against a current federal minister, saying there is “insufficient evidence”.

NSW Police has confirmed there is “insufficient evidence” to proceed with an investigation into an historical rape allegation levelled at a cabinet minister.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison received an anonymous letter last week, including an attachment outlining historical allegations of an alleged rape committed by the man before he entered politics.

The woman claimed she was raped in 1988 in the document, which was referred to the Australian Federal Police.

She died in June 2020 after taking her own life in Adelaide, having reported the matter to police in 2019.

But NSW Police, which has been the lead agency in the case since 2020, confirmed the matter closed due to insufficient evidence in a statement on Tuesday.

Scott Morrison said he was briefed on the allegations in the document but did not read it himself. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gaye Gerard

“For various reasons, the woman did not detail her allegations in a formal statement to NSW Police,” it read.

“Following the woman’s death, NSW Police came into possession of a personal document purportedly made by the woman previously.

“NSW Police have since sought legal advice in relation to these matters.

“Based on information provided to NSW Police, there is insufficient admissible evidence to proceed.

“As such, NSW Police Force has determined the matter is now closed.”

The prime minister on Monday rejected calls for an independent inquiry into the allegation, saying it was a matter for the police.

Mr Morrison also refused to bow pressure for the minister in question to stand down, adding he had denied the allegations.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese said Mr Morrison needed to be comfortable that the minister could continue in his position.

“Scott Morrison needs to show leadership,” Mr Albanese said.

“There is a dark cloud over the government.

“It really isn’t enough for the prime minister to think that this issue is just going to disappear.”