NSW Minister John Sidoti to face ICAC in a month-long public inquiry

John Sidoti has quit Gladys Berejiklian’s ministry after ICAC announced it will launch an investigation into the Liberal MP.

Drummoyne MP John Sidoti. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Christian Gilles

NSW Minister John Sidoti has resigned from Gladys Berejiklian’s ministry after the corruption watchdog announced an investigation into the Liberal MP.

After 18-months of preliminary investigations, Mr Sidoti will face the Independent Commission Against Corruption in a month-long public inquiry into allegations he “improperly influenced” the advancements of multiple development sites in Sydney’s inner-west.

ICAC will also explore allegations that Mr Sidoti failed to disclose “a number of” his financial interests.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian confirmed Mr Sidoti had offered his resignation during a brief conversation on Wednesday morning, but she wouldn’t comment on whether it was appropriate for the Drummoyne MP to move to the cross bench.

“I’ve not even seen the terms of reference. I’ve just been advised there are public hearings at the end of the month,” Ms Berejiklian told a press conference.

“There’s a due process that needs to be followed and I have to seek advice on what matters are.”

Skills Minister Geoff Lee will continue as acting Sports Minister until a replacement for Mr Sidoti is found.

On Wednesday, ICAC released a statement confirming the four-week public hearing would begin on March 29.

“The Commission is investigating allegations that, between 26 March 2011 and 6 February 2018, Mr Sidoti improperly influenced another person, or persons, to dishonestly or partially exercise any of their official functions,” the ICAC statement said.

The investigation will focus on allegations Mr Sidoti attempted to advance “amendments to development controls affecting land” and “any rezoning of the land and/or any proposals to develop the land.”

Mr Sidoti stepped aside as Sports, Multiculturalism, Seniors and Veterans Minister in September 2019 after NSW Labor leader Jodi McKay referred him to ICAC chief commissioner Peter Hall QC.

After the tumultuous ICAC probe into disgraced former Liberal MP Daryl Maguire rocked the Berejiklian government, Ms McKay called on the Premier to sack Mr Sidoti from the Liberal Party, saying the public couldn’t have faith in the integrity of the government while he remained in the party.

“From the Premier down, they’ve given up on integrity. There is a culture conducive to corruption, and the Premier needs to sack John Sidoti without delay” Ms McKay said.

In December, Mr Sidoti surrendered his ministerial salary and entitlements, but only after he had accrued over $17,000 in wages while awaiting the findings of the preliminary investigation.

Mr Sidoti has a declared interest in four properties in Five Dock, all of which are located within 100 metres of the proposed metro station.

The public hearing will be led by chief commissioner Mr Hall. Rob Ranken will be counsel assisting the commission.