Lobbyist Jeremy Greenwood told the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) on Monday that no evidence links him to a conservative Liberal factional group [1].
The testimony comes as part of an inquiry into alleged illegal political donations in Australia. The proceedings aim to determine if lobbyists and political figures bypassed donation laws to influence policy or secure access to power.
Greenwood addressed the commission regarding his relationship with the factional group, which has been the subject of the investigation. He said, "There is not a shred of evidence that I was involved with the conservative Liberal group" [1].
While denying formal involvement, Greenwood described previous interactions with the group's members. He said that he had advised the members "not to keep going" because the environment and activities associated with the group had become "so toxic" [1].
The ICAC inquiry, known as Operation Rosny, continues to examine the flow of funds within political circles. Investigators are looking into whether the conservative faction used illicit means to consolidate power within the party structure.
Greenwood's testimony seeks to distance him from the legal risks associated with those donations. By framing his role as an outsider who warned the group of its own toxicity, he attempts to decouple his professional lobbying activities from the faction's internal operations [1].
“"There is not a shred of evidence that I was involved with the conservative Liberal group."”
This testimony highlights the tension between professional lobbyists and internal party factions. If the ICAC finds evidence contradicting Greenwood's claims, it could lead to charges of illegal political financing or corruption. The case underscores the ongoing scrutiny of 'dark money' and the influence of unregistered groups within the Australian political system.
