A New South Wales (NSW) jury has found Gareth Ward, a sitting member of state parliament, guilty of three counts of indecent assault and one count of rape against two young men.
The 44-year-old politician, who represents Kiama, assaulted the victims (aged 18 and 24) at his home between 2013 and 2015 after meeting them through political circles. Despite resigning as a state minister and leaving the Liberal Party when allegations surfaced in 2021, Ward controversially retained his parliamentary seat and was re-elected in 2023.
The Damning Allegations: How Ward Preyed on Vulnerable Young Men
The NSW District Court trial, which spanned nine weeks, heard disturbing details of Ward’s crimes. In 2013, he invited an intoxicated 18-year-old to his home and indecently assaulted him three times, ignoring the victim’s resistance.
Two years later, he raped a 24-year-old political staffer following an event at NSW Parliament. Ward denied the allegations, claiming the 2015 rape never occurred and that the first accuser misremembered their encounter.
However, Crown Prosecutor Monika Knowles argued the striking similarities between the two victims’ testimonies—who did not know each other—proved their credibility. “Similar behaviour, similar setting, same man, same conclusion. This is not a coincidence,” Knowles asserted in court.
Despite the serious criminal charges, Ward refused to resign as an MP, forcing the NSW government to consider expelling him legislatively. However, legal advisors warned that doing so could compromise his right to a fair trial, allowing him to remain in office. His re-election in 2023 sparked criticism, with critics accusing the political system of failing to hold accused lawmakers accountable.
What Happens Now
Ward is scheduled to return to court later this year for sentencing, where he could face significant prison time. Meanwhile, the NSW Parliament may revisit his expulsion, now that the trial has concluded.
