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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
National
Jordyn Beazley

NSW MP Gareth Ward allegedly raped political staffer after Parliament House event, trial hears

Gareth Ward arrives at court
Gareth Ward was elected the Liberal MP for Kiama in 2011 and was suspended from the party after the allegations came to light in 2022. He was then re-elected as an independent in 2023, and is the current MP for Kiama. Photograph: Bianca de Marchi/AAP

New South Wales independent MP Gareth Ward allegedly raped a political staffer in his home in 2015 after he invited the man to stay over following an event at Parliament House, a court has heard.

Ward, who at the time of the alleged offending was the Liberal MP for Kiama, is facing an expected four-week trial at Sydney’s Downing Centre after being charged with five criminal offences.

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