UPDATE: The sentencing of disgraced former Kiama state MP Gareth Ward has been abruptly postponed after his legal team filed an 11th-hour court motion. Originally scheduled for Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at the Parramatta District Court, the hearing will now take place on Friday, leaving victims and the community in suspense.
In July, Ward was found guilty of rape and three counts of indecent assault involving two young men. This latest delay arises from a dispute over how he should be sentenced—under current legal standards or those from when the crimes occurred in 2013 and 2015. Judge Kara Shead expressed frustration over the delay, indicating it could have been addressed sooner, especially considering the impact on Ward’s victims, who observed the proceedings via audio-visual link.
Ward, 44, who has been in custody since July, participated in the brief hearing while dressed in prison attire but did not speak. His criminal acts include inviting an intoxicated 18-year-old to his home in February 2013, where he indecently assaulted the young man. Two years later, he sexually assaulted a 24-year-old political staffer at his apartment after a parliamentary event, despite the victim’s repeated refusals.
The emotional toll on the victims is profound. One victim detailed the lasting effects in a statement, admitting he feels that any hope for a future relationship has been shattered due to Ward’s actions. He poignantly noted, “I was raped by a politician—someone entrusted with protecting our most vulnerable.”
Ward’s defense has argued that his legal blindness and previous public service should warrant a community sentence instead of imprisonment. Character references presented to the court, including one from former Liberal MP Shelley Hancock, described his actions as out of character, asserting he poses no threat to the community.
The case has garnered significant attention since Ward was removed from his ministerial position amid allegations in 2021. Despite ongoing charges, he was re-elected as an independent in the 2023 election but resigned just hours before a vote that could have expelled him from the NSW Parliament.
As the legal proceedings unfold, many are left questioning the implications of this case on public trust in political figures and the justice system. Victims and advocates are encouraged to reach out for support through dedicated services such as 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732 and Lifeline at 13 11 14.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
