Fugitive Property Developer Jean Nassif to Front NSW Corruption Watchdog Hearing from Lebanon

Fugitive property developer Jean Nassif is set to appear before the NSW corruption watchdog today, after previously cancelling an appearance on medical grounds.

Mr Nassif had initially declined to cooperate with the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), but was scheduled to appear via video link from Lebanon earlier this month. The hearing was postponed when Mr Nassif provided a medical certificate excusing him from giving evidence.

According to Monday's witness list, Mr Nassif is expected to appear later today. NSW Police issued an international arrest warrant for him in June 2023 over alleged fraud offences.

The ICAC is investigating whether political donations linked to Mr Nassif were used to build influence within the NSW Liberal Party and advance his development interests. Under NSW law, property developers and anyone donating on their behalf are prohibited from making political donations.

Mr Nassif has not returned to Australia since fleeing to Lebanon in December 2022, the month a previous parliamentary inquiry began. His construction and property development company, Toplace, collapsed into administration the following month, owing creditors a reported $2 billion and leaving thousands of apartment owners facing repairs to properties affected by serious defects.

In a letter tabled at a parliamentary inquiry, Mr Nassif described allegations against him as "not credible".