The New South Wales (NSW) parliament is facing challenges with men engaging in abusive behavior, and seemingly struggles to handle these issues appropriately. A particular case involves Gareth Ward, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Kiama, who, despite being found guilty of sexually abusing two young men and currently serving a sentence, remains a legislative assembly member due to his ongoing appeal process. Labor is moving to have him expelled, which could lead to further legal complications.
On a separate note, the lower moral standards among politicians and outdated parliamentary behavior rules continue to be a problematic theme. Another MP, Mark Latham, faces scrutiny not for criminal offenses but for lewd behavior and misuse of parliamentary privilege. Both situations highlight the urgent need for cultural change and modernization of the parliamentary rules to better address such issues. The current system is under pressure and seems inadequate in maintaining public and institutional integrity.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/aug/03/bad-men-problem-gareth-ward-and-mark-latham-leave-nsw-parliament-in-unchartered-territory-ntwnfb
