In a move aimed at upholding the integrity of elected officials, the NSW Liberal Party has expelled Upper House MP Taylor Martin following a probe into inappropriate text messages sent during a personal relationship breakup.
Martin, an ex-staffer, was one of the youngest MPs to enter state parliament in 2017 when he was chosen to replace former police minister Mike Gallacher, who resigned from parliament.
His expulsion from the NSW party means he can still rightfully sit as an independent on the crossbench, as his term is not due to expire until 2027.
Political parties usually prefer elected upper house members to resign from parliament so the seat can be filled by appointing another party member.
It is uncertain if Martin is inclined to do this or not.
Martin was sidelined from Liberal Party activities last July when the investigation commenced.
The incident in question came to light after allegations surfaced regarding Martin’s conduct during what he described as a “heated” and “undignified” breakup.
The NSW Liberal Party, acting swiftly on the findings of the investigation, confirmed his expulsion through a statement from state director Richard Shields.
“The NSW Liberal Party expects the highest standards of behaviour of its members and elected representatives,” Shields said.
The decision, supported by NSW party leader Mark Speakman, was “made after a lengthy, independent investigation”.
Martin expressed dismay over the outcome, referencing challenges due to his relative inexperience at the time of the incident.
Last year Martin apologised, saying the end of the relationship was “an ugly and undignified parting of ways”.
The details of the investigation and report remain confidential, leaving the community with lingering questions about the standards expected of their elected officials.