A former New South Wales MP, Gareth Ward, has been taken into custody following a guilty verdict for sexually abusing two young men. The 44-year-old, who represented Kiama, was found guilty in July by a jury in the NSW District Court on charges including one count of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault.
During a hearing on Wednesday, Judge Kara Shead ordered Ward’s imprisonment pending sentencing. His legal representative had requested that Ward remain on bail, citing concerns for his safety due to his high-profile status and the nature of his crimes. However, Judge Shead noted that protective measures could be arranged if necessary and declined to extend his bail even considering Ward’s vision issues caused by oculocutaneous albinism.
The charges stem from two incidents: the first involved a drunken 18-year-old man who Ward had invited to his home in February 2013. The victim testified that despite his resistance, Ward assaulted him three times while encouraging him to drink. The second incident occurred in 2015, when Ward sexually assaulted a 24-year-old political staffer after a parliamentary event, despite the victim’s repeated refusals.
In light of the verdict, NSW Premier Chris Minns has insisted that Ward resign immediately, stating it would be “ridiculous” for him to continue in office given his convictions. The premier mentioned that legal advice suggests the possibility of expelling Ward from parliament exists.
Ward, who has represented the Kiama electorate since 2011, initially won three elections as a Liberal Party candidate but ran as an independent in the 2023 election. He has yet to receive his sentence and has the opportunity to appeal the guilty verdicts.
For individuals seeking support, contact is available through 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) or the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service at 1800 211 028.