Victoria
Former Catholic schools chief questioned over Angus Taylor messages
The former head of Catholic Schools NSW has denied seeking donations for a Liberal factional group during an ICAC hearing.
The former head of Catholic Schools NSW has faced questioning at the Independent Commission Against Corruption over text messages concerning federal Opposition Leader Angus Taylor.
According to reporting in a wire service report, the former education executive confirmed during his appearance at the anti-corruption watchdog that he had indeed sought financial support from Mr Taylor. However, he strongly denied that the funding was intended for a right-wing Liberal Party factional group that is currently at the centre of a corruption probe.
The commission is currently investigating the financial dealings and fundraising activities of the Liberal faction. Investigators focused their questions on the intent behind the communications and whether any potential donations bypassed established disclosure rules.
While the former schools chief acknowledged the communication with Mr Taylor, he maintained that the discussion regarding financial support was separate from the factional group's activities. The exact details of what the requested funds were for, and the precise timeline of the messages, remain unconfirmed as the inquiry continues.
The watchdog is attempting to establish whether any corrupt conduct occurred in relation to political donations and factional influence within the state. Representatives for Mr Taylor have not been accused of wrongdoing, and the investigation is focused on the actions of the faction and those soliciting funds.
The inquiry is expected to call further witnesses from both the political and education sectors as it seeks to untangle the network of donations.
To watch next will be whether the commission summons further federal political figures to give evidence regarding factional fundraising.
This report draws on original reporting by Wire report.
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