Full Breakdown
Jean Nassif’s Video-Link Testimony to NSW’s ICAC Operation Rosny
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Fugitive Developer Testifies from Beirut
On September 14, 2026, the New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) heard evidence from property developer Jean Nassif via video link from his bedroom in Beirut, Lebanon. Nassif, the founder of the now-collapsed Toplace group, was questioned about alleged prohibited political donations and bribes to right-faction Liberal Party operatives intended to influence planning decisions and remove political opponents who had scrutinised his defective apartment projects.
Background & Context
Toplace’s rapid expansion in the early-2020s was followed by widespread complaints about structural defects. In December 2022, Nassif fled Australia as the company entered administration, leaving creditors with an estimated $2 billion in debts and thousands of apartment owners facing costly repairs. NSW Police issued an international arrest warrant for alleged fraud offences in June 2023.
Operation Rosny, launched by ICAC, investigates whether Nassif channeled prohibited donations through third parties and companies to recruit Liberal Party members and to “topple” former police minister David Elliott and former building commissioner David Chandler, whom he claimed obstructed his developments.
Timeline
- December 2022 – Nassif leaves Australia for Lebanon as Toplace collapses.
- June 2023 – International arrest warrant issued for alleged fraud.
- August 2021 – Recorded phone call in which Nassif claims “I hold 50 per cent of the power in this government now, more, 51, 52 per cent.”
- September 2021 – Second call where Nassif boasts of being the Liberal Right faction’s “godfather.”
- September 14, 2026 – First ICAC appearance via video link; Nassif repeats offers of a $1 million “commission” to consultants Christian Ellis and Jeremy Greenwood.
- Later in the week (2026) – Nassif indicates he will return for additional testimony.
Data & Statistics
- $1 million – Amount Nassif says he offered as a “commission” to Ellis and Greenwood.
- $2 billion – Reported debt of Toplace and its affiliates.
- 50-52 % – Percentage of alleged government influence Nassif claimed in recorded calls.
Official Statements & Responses
NSW Police confirmed the ongoing international warrant and reiterated that no charges have been filed in relation to the political-donation allegations.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'm going to speak my heart and I'm going to say exactly what happened with me,” — Mr Nassif
- “I hold 50 per cent of the power in this government now, more, 51, 52 per cent,” — Mr Nassif
- “Of course, when you tell him there is $1 million to approve a project, they will move mountains,” — Jean Nassif
What’s Next
Nassif has indicated he will appear again “later this week” to complete his evidence. The ICAC has scheduled further hearings, and the commission’s final report is expected to be released after the conclusion of the eight-week public hearing series.
*All statements are attributed to the individuals or bodies that made them; no speculation or unverified claims are presented.*