Lobbying regulator to crack down on 'revolving door'

The NSW government is set to introduce new transparency reforms aimed at regulating lobbying practices and preventing the "revolving door" between government and private sector. Following a corruption probe involving the Liberal Party and Labor councillors, the NSW Electoral Commission will be established as the primary lobbying regulator, with enhanced investigative powers to ensure compliance.

Government officials will be required to undergo a six-month cooling-off period before transitioning to a private sector job related to their former public service roles. The reforms are intended to restore public trust in state politics, following a series of corruption scandals that have cast doubt on the integrity of local government officials.

Proposals also include making ministerial diary disclosures more accessible and increasing transparency around fundraising events that offer exclusive access to ministers. The government aims to address concerns about undue influence and protect against corrupt behavior, as seen in recent cases involving property developer Jean Nassif and her company, Toplace.