Chris Minns faces corruption probe over $5 billion housing deal

In Australia, the New South Wales Government proposed a significant redevelopment project at the Rosehill Gardens Racecourse, aiming to create a new suburb with 25,000 homes at a cost of $5 billion. This unsolicited project was fast-tracked following an informal meeting between NSW Premier Chris Minns and Steve McMahon, head of Corporate Affairs and Government Relations at the Australian Turf Club, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest given their long-standing relationship of over 20 years. The proposal has drawn criticism from the racing industry, with high-profile trainers like Gai Waterhouse objecting to the lack of a proper vote from Australian Turf Club members regarding the sale of the racecourse, which they claim is owned by them. This backdrop of controversy led to a committee suggesting that Premier Minns should have declared a conflict of interest, especially in light of a previous ICAC ruling regarding former Premier Gladys Berejiklian's corrupt conduct. The development has not only polarised opinions but is now subject to a deeper investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption, reflecting the serious implications of governance and ethical practices in public sector deals, especially amidst ongoing pressures to reform government operations in New South Wales. As Minns strives to navigate this situation, public sentiments and industry reactions continue to evolve, underscoring the complexity of political accountability in the realm of significant governmental projects.