NSW Liberals face scrutiny over MP charged with child assault

The New South Wales Liberal party is facing scrutiny after MP Rory Amon was charged with 10 child sexual assault offences, including five counts of sexual intercourse with a person aged over 10 and under 14. Amon, who denies all charges, was preselected as the Liberal candidate for Pittwater in December 2022, despite an ongoing police investigation that began in June 2022 regarding allegations of sexual assault from 2017. He was elected to parliament in March 2023 and appointed as the opposition spokesperson for youth affairs in May 2023. State party leader Mark Speakman stated that Amon did not disclose any information that would have raised concerns during the preselection process. Speakman emphasized that Amon answered 'no' to questions regarding any accusations of crime. He admitted that he was unaware of the police investigation until it was reported in the media, raising questions about the vetting process for candidates. The incident has prompted discussions about the adequacy of checks in place for candidates, particularly those in sensitive roles involving youth. Speakman acknowledged the need for a review of the vetting procedures to prevent similar situations in the future. Amon's resignation has also created a vacancy in the Pittwater electorate, necessitating the nomination of a new candidate for the upcoming byelection. This situation unfolds amid broader challenges for the NSW Liberal party, which has struggled to nominate candidates for local elections, leading to federal intervention. The party's leadership is now under pressure to address these issues and restore public confidence.