Gareth Ward, the independent member for Kiama, has been convicted of raping and sexually assaulting two young men between 2013 and 2015. Despite being in custody, he is making legal efforts to resist his expulsion from the state parliament. During the appeals process, officials have condemned his refusal to resign, calling it offensive and unconscionable.
Gareth Ward: Convicted Rapist Challenges Expulsion from NSW Parliament
Gareth Ward: Convicted Rapist Challenges Expulsion from NSW Parliament
An Australian lawmaker convicted of sexual assault fights to stay in the New South Wales parliament.
Ward’s legal representatives are preparing to challenge the government's actions in court. Ward had previously resigned his ministerial position and from the Liberal Party amid the allegations but was re-elected in 2023. With upcoming sentencing on multiple charges, including rape, the country faces the possibility of a by-election should he be removed from office.
The NSW government is under pressure to navigate the ethical concerns surrounding Ward's position as well as the potential implications of a by-election.
The NSW government is under pressure to navigate the ethical concerns surrounding Ward's position as well as the potential implications of a by-election.
