Arabic version: تم العثور على الرئيس السابق للبنية التحتية المدرسية في نيو ساوث ويلز فاسدًا من قبل ICAC

Anthony Manning, the former chief executive of School Infrastructure NSW (SINSW), has been found corrupt by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) for misusing millions of dollars allocated for school projects in New South Wales. The commission’s investigation revealed that Manning engaged in misconduct by arranging lucrative jobs and contracts for friends and associates, a practice described as “cronyism.”

According to ABC News, the ICAC’s findings indicated that SINSW spent $344 million on contingent workers during Manning’s tenure from June 2017 to February 2024. Notably, one of these workers was hired without proper recruitment processes and received an annual salary of approximately $644,000.

The inquiry also highlighted instances where Manning arranged contracts for his associates, including a consultancy led by a friend, which was paid significantly more than initially agreed for work that did not occur. Furthermore, Manning reportedly dismissed employees who questioned his decisions regarding these contracts.

The ICAC has recommended that the Director of Public Prosecutions consider prosecuting Manning for misconduct in public office and providing false evidence. Two other officials, Martin Berry and Wendy O’Brien, were also found to have engaged in corrupt conduct and are facing prosecution.

In response to the findings, NSW Deputy Premier Prue Car emphasized the negative impact of Manning’s actions on students and families in the state, particularly in rapidly growing suburbs. She stated that the government is committed to reforming school infrastructure to better meet community needs. Meanwhile, Shadow Minister for Education Mark Speakman criticized the government for its delayed action regarding Manning’s misconduct, urging for accountability rather than political blame.