ICAC Launches Public Hearings in Parramatta Council Probe
The New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has commenced public hearings as part of Operation Navarra, an investigation into former City of Parramatta Council chief executive Gail Connolly and council employees Angela Jones-Blayney and Roxanne Thornton. The inquiry examines allegations of improper conduct, including surveillance, recruitment manipulation, and the use of public funds.
"I maintain I have not acted inappropriately. That is why I welcome the opportunity to detail the facts before the Commission and clear my name." — Gail Connolly, former City of Parramatta Council chief executive
Key Allegations
ICAC is investigating a series of allegations regarding the conduct of the individuals involved:
Surveillance and Reprisals
The investigation includes allegations that Connolly, Jones-Blayney, and Thornton conducted improper surveillance and workplace investigations into staff and a councillor. Counsel assisting the commission, Joanna Davidson SC, alleged that these actions were used to target perceived opponents or as reprisal.
Recruitment and Promotion Irregularities
The inquiry is examining claims that recruitment and promotion processes were subverted. Allegations include that Connolly helped appoint Thornton and Jones-Blayney to roles, removed a law degree requirement for a position, and that Thornton received interview questions in advance for a position she later held. Connolly also allegedly signed a document with Thornton's signature while she was not present.
Group Dynamics
Sources indicate the three individuals were part of a group called "Pink Ops" while working at Ryde Council. They are reported to have maintained close social ties and communicated via a WhatsApp group, which forms part of the backdrop to decisions made at Parramatta Council.
Use of Private Email
Connolly allegedly avoided using her work email for certain communications, using a private email instead, which may have circumvented transparency requirements.
Staff Exits and Redundancies
The investigation is examining the use of public funds for staff exits. Data from the City of Parramatta indicates the council spent approximately $4.3 million to $5.2 million on redundancies and payments to over 80 employees who were dismissed or made redundant between 2022 and June 2025.
Timeline of Events
Date Event April 2023 Gail Connolly appointed as chief executive of the City of Parramatta Council July 2023 ICAC raided the council's Wentworth Street offices as part of Operation Navarra October 2025 Connolly terminated from her position, two years before the end of her contract May 11 First public hearing for Operation Navarra scheduled; hearings expected to continue over four weeksResponses and Background
Gail Connolly's Statement: In a statement, Connolly said, "I maintain I have not acted inappropriately. That is why I welcome the opportunity to detail the facts before the Commission and clear my name."
Councillor's Comment: Independent councillor Kellie Darley described the ICAC announcement as a "critical step towards restoring integrity and credibility at City of Parramatta Council."
Previous Recognition: Connolly was awarded a Public Service Medal in 2023 for service to local government. ICAC has previously credited her with referring former Georges River councillors Con Hindi and Vince Badalati to the commission; both were later found to have engaged in serious corrupt conduct.
Other Investigations
The ICAC investigation into Parramatta Council staff is separate from another reported ICAC probe examining allegations that property developer Jean Nassif sought to bribe members of a former Parramatta Council.