The NSW Premier has defended Transport Minister Jo Haylen, who has faced backlash for using a taxpayer-funded driver to attend a winery lunch in the Hunter Valley. Allegations have surfaced suggesting Haylen also used the driver on multiple occasions for personal trips, including taking her son to sporting events in Sydney. While she acknowledged her mistake in using the driver for the lunch and agreed to repay the associated costs, she declined to comment further on her movements.
Premier Chris Minns has expressed disappointment in Haylen’s judgement but ruled out her dismissal, citing the importance of continuity in major portfolios. He described the incident as a significant misstep and acknowledged that it undermined public trust in government accountability. Though Haylen did not technically breach existing rules, Minns has initiated a review to tighten regulations around driver usage for ministers.
Haylen will cover the $750 expense for the driver during the contentious winery visit, and her usage records will be scrutinised to ensure compliance moving forward. Despite the criticism, both she and Housing Minister Rose Jackson involved in the incident will retain their positions in the government.