Liberal operative was offered $1,000 to get media to cover ‘grubby rumour’ rival was having affair, Icac hears

At an Icac hearing, it was revealed that a Liberal operative was offered $1,000 to encourage media coverage of an unsubstantiated rumour concerning an alleged affair involving then-Liberal minister David Elliott.

Sharangan Maheswaran testified regarding the offer, characterizing his bid to secure a story on the unverified claim as "not a serious offer."

The proceedings continue to unfold through live updates and reporting, examining the intersections of political operatives, media manipulation, and internal party dynamics.