John Dewar in contempt risk over conflicting KordaMentha evidence
Former UOW vice-chancellor gave conflicting sworn evidence about his conflict of interest with consulting firm KordaMentha.
A NSW inquiry found that former University of Wollongong vice-chancellor John Dewar misled parliament. He had ties to consulting firm KordaMentha, where he was a partner.
Before the inquiry in April, Dewar said he was on unpaid leave from KordaMentha. Later he admitted he was paid by the firm in June 2024.
He worked one day every two weeks. In July, Dewar told the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) he broke his duty to UOW.
He had given KordaMentha inside information to help its tender bid. The committee found major gaps in his stories.
What he told parliament was different from what he wrote in evidence. His sworn statements to ICAC were also different.
Breaking parliament rules can lead to legal penalties.
- Labor MLC Dr Sarah Kaine
- Inquiry chair
- One day a fortnight
- Dewar's work schedule
- Leadership with education team
- Type of work
- Contempt of parliament
- Potential legal consequence
Why it mattersGiving false sworn evidence to parliament is a serious legal issue. It may result in contempt charges.
AustraliaUniversities Australia are under scrutiny for governance and transparency. A contempt ruling would highlight how poorly some leaders have handled conflicts of interest in public institutions.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
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