NSW MP Gareth Ward to face trial on sexual and indecent assault allegations

Member for Kiama Gareth Ward has pleaded not guilty to charges of sexually abusing a 27-year-old man in 2015 and indecently assaulting a 17-year-old boy two years earlier.

Gareth Ward in April, speaking with residents who were affected by floods. Picture: Tim Hunter.

NSW state MP Gareth Ward has been committed to stand trial for sex and indecent assault allegations involving a teenage boy and a man.

The Liberal Member for Kiama was suspended from parliament after he was charged with one count of sexual intercourse without consent, three counts of assault with act of indecency and one count of common assault in March.

He firmly denies all charges and entered a plea of not guilty via audiovisual link on Friday.

The 41-year-old appeared before Nowra Local Court, where he was committed for trial in the NSW District Court.

It is alleged he sexually abused a 27-year-old man in Sydney in 2015 and indecently assaulted a 17-year-old boy at Meroo Meadow, about 150km south of Sydney in February 2013.

Since he was charged he has not physically appeared before a magistrate. He is physically excused from attending court on the next occasion.

After Mr Ward was charged NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet sought for him to resign, then attempted to have him expelled from parliament and also attempted to have his salary suspended.

In 2021 he moved to the crossbench after reports emerged of the criminal investigation. While still an MP, but suspended on full pay, Mr Ward is unable to vote, debate or amend and create legislation.

Speaking to the ABC Radio in July, Mr Ward defended his decision to stay on as MP while fighting the charges.

“I have a full diary, I still have people coming to see me to assist with issues,” Mr Ward said.

“I have been able to secure grants from departments, secure outcomes for residents, I am still working with all my local councils.”

The matter returns to court on September 14.