UPDATE: Former Kiama state MP Gareth Ward has been sentenced to five years and nine months in prison following his conviction for sexually assaulting two young men over a decade ago. The sentence was handed down on October 6, 2023, in the NSW District Court in Sydney.
The court found Ward, aged 44, guilty of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault. Judge Kara Shead described his actions as “deliberate and predatory,” emphasizing the gravity of his offenses. During the sentencing, she revealed the harrowing details of the assaults, noting that Ward was fully aware of the victims’ non-consent.
In one shocking incident from February 2013, Ward invited an 18-year-old man to his home after learning about his personal troubles. While intoxicated, the victim protested, stating, “No, like I’m going to sleep. Get off,” but Ward disregarded his words, attempting to coerce him into submission by claiming he would offer a massage.
Two years later, Ward assaulted a 24-year-old political staffer at his apartment after a parliamentary event. The victim recounted feeling “uncomfortable” and experiencing “a jolt kind of pain” as he repeatedly said “no” to Ward’s advances.
Following police investigations in 2021, Ward was removed from his ministerial role as Minister for Families, Communities, and Disability Services, but he managed to secure re-election as an independent in 2023 despite the ongoing allegations. He ultimately resigned just hours before a parliamentary expulsion vote, narrowly avoiding the distinction of being the fifth person expelled from the NSW Parliament in two centuries.
Judge Shead’s ruling includes a non-parole period of three years and nine months, allowing for his potential release on April 29, 2029. This case highlights the urgent need for justice and accountability in instances of sexual violence, as communities rally for change and support for victims.
For anyone affected by sexual abuse, assistance is available through 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732 or 1800 211 028 for the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service.
This developing story continues to resonate across Australia as advocates call for further reforms to protect vulnerable individuals.
