Key facts
- Fugitive developer Jean Nassif allegedly threatened former NSW building commissioner David Chandler.
- Chandler recounted a 2021 phone call where Nassif warned of harm if his projects were obstructed.
- The Independent Commission against Corruption (Icac) is investigating alleged illegal political donations by Nassif.
- Nassif is accused of paying $2m to individuals linked to the NSW Liberal party.
- Chandler reported facing a campaign to undermine his integrity, including an alleged extortion attempt and a discrediting video.
Former NSW building commissioner David Chandler testified before the Independent Commission against Corruption (Icac) about an alleged threat from fugitive developer Jean Nassif. Chandler stated that in 2021, Nassif warned him he would "harm" him if he interfered with his projects. This occurred after previous clashes, including a "destructive inspection" ordered by Chandler on a Toplace building in 2020. Following the 2021 phone call, Chandler banned Nassif from construction sites and ceased direct dealings with him.
Icac is investigating whether Nassif made payments totaling $2 million to a group of young conservatives, potentially as illegal political donations to the NSW Liberal party, with the aim of influencing outcomes, including the removal of the building commissioner. Chandler, who is not under investigation, described experiencing a campaign to undermine his integrity, including an alleged extortion attempt via an anonymous email and a video that questioned his conduct.
Chandler resigned in July 2022, citing a loss of confidence from the minister and pressure from developers, but was later reinstated and served until 2024. Nassif, who fled Australia for Lebanon in 2022, is expected to give evidence to the inquiry via video link.