An explosive report by Victoria’s anti-corruption watchdog has uncovered a scandal involving former mayor Cameron Nation at Moonee Valley City Council. The Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) found that Nation received cocaine in exchange for expediting property applications for a local construction manager. The report also revealed potential bribery by a soccer club to secure exclusive access to a sporting ground.
Nation’s involvement with the construction manager was further highlighted by text message evidence of drug exchanges for council favors. Despite denials, IBAC found that Nation had indeed accepted cocaine and other inducements from the construction manager. The report also implicated other councillors in misconduct related to a soccer club.
IBAC Commissioner Victoria Elliott emphasized the erosion of trust in local government due to the actions of Nation and fellow councillors. The report concluded that they had abused their positions for personal gain, disregarding obligations to the community and engaging in corrupt practices.
The revelations from Operation Leo shed light on the importance of accountability and transparency in governance, highlighting the need for ethical conduct among elected officials to uphold public trust.