NSW Premier Chris Minns set to question Transport Minister Jo Haylen over secret trips using government driver
NSW Premier Chris Minns has found himself under increasing pressure as revelations about Transport Minister Jo Haylen’s use of a government driver for personal trips continue to make headlines. With public outcry mounting, Minns has now vowed to investigate whether Haylen took additional trips, including a suspected second winery visit.
The controversy began when it was uncovered that Haylen had arranged for a ministerial driver to take her on a personal “long lunch” trip to the Hunter Valley during the Australia Day long weekend. The trip involved a 446-kilometre round trip, with Haylen and friends attending a lavish three-hour lunch at Brokenwood Wines in Pokolbin. The use of the government car for this personal journey sparked outrage, particularly given the 13-hour duration of the trip.
Premier Minns defended his minister initially, stating that the use of the driver was within the rules but conceded that the public perception was problematic. “While the travel was within the rules, it doesn’t pass the pub test,” Haylen admitted in a public apology, agreeing to repay the $750 cost of the trip. Despite this, the scandal took another turn when it was revealed that Haylen had also arranged another trip with the same government driver for a weekend sport outing with her family.
In a radio interview, Minns expressed concern over any new revelations about Haylen’s use of government resources. “If news of another personal trip comes to light, it would weigh very heavily on me, and I would need to reassess the situation,” he said, signalling that further scrutiny could lead to consequences.
The growing scandal has led to sharp criticism from opposition leaders. Mark Speakman, the Leader of the Opposition, called for Haylen’s resignation, accusing her of showing “utter contempt” for taxpayers. Speakman emphasised that the public expected more transparency and accountability from their leaders, particularly in light of the emerging pattern of questionable use of ministerial privileges.
Independent MP Alex Greenwich, however, came to Haylen’s defence, acknowledging her hard work and commitment but noting that the situation “didn’t pass the pub test.” He argued against drastic changes to ministerial benefits that could jeopardise safety or confidentiality during official duties, but added that the issue needed to be handled carefully, keeping in mind the intense workload of ministers.
Minns, facing growing pressure, has promised to review the rules around the use of government drivers to prevent further misuse. He acknowledged the damage the scandal had caused to the government’s reputation but stressed the need for careful consideration before implementing changes that might affect the work of ministers.
As the saga unfolds, the NSW government finds itself in a tight spot, caught between defending its ministers and responding to public outrage over their conduct. The premier’s next moves could define the future of his leadership and that of his embattled transport minister.
