Latest news with #TfNSW
News.com.au
5 days ago
- News.com.au
Former Transport for NSW employee accused of ‘staggering' corruption now on the run
A former Transport for NSW (TfNSW) employee who is accused of pocketing about $11.5 million from allegedly corrupt dealings with roadworks contractors is on the run. Ibrahim Helmy is at the centre of an Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) inquiry that alleges a 'staggering' $343 million of taxpayer-funded contracts were awarded to businesses that he is suspected to have had corrupt relationships with. After he failed to attend an ICAC summons in May, NSW Police issued a warrant for Mr Helmy's arrest. A family member told the Commission he 'took the rubbish out on a Sunday night and did not return', and counsel assisting Rob Ranken, SC, told the inquiry, 'we believe he remains in the jurisdiction and that individuals have been collaborating to conceal his whereabouts.' His family has not reported him missing. It is alleged that between 2012 to 2024, Mr Helmy masterminded a web of corruption involving at least four other TfNSW employees that saw a number of businesses awarded lucrative contracts in return for kickbacks which came in the form of gold bullion nuggets, cryptocurrency, gift cards and other valuables. Invoices for the contracts, which were worth between $12 million to $99 million, were allegedly 'falsely inflated' and according to one of the business owners, the excess was split 50/50 between the business and Mr Helmy. Mr Ranken said there is evidence suggesting that on one occasion Mr Helmy helped a business prepare a tender submission and provided 'confidential documents prepared by other contractors to assist with the preparation' of their submission. It is also alleged that Mr Helmy stacked tender evaluation committees 'in a way that allowed him to manipulate the committee's recommendations'. The inquiry heard that one of the businesses involved, Protection Barriers, had received 'very little' work from TfNSW prior to mid 2020 when Mr Helmy is alleged to have begun a corrupt relationship with them. Protection Barriers founder Jason Chellew told the inquiry on Monday he was contacted by Mr Helmy and that he 'proposed, giving us jobs, for yeah, kickbacks.' 'The problem we had at that sort of time, we were worried that if we said 'no', we would have got nothing,' Mr Chellew said, referring to a fear that rejecting Mr Helmy's offer would result in the business being passed up by TfNSW for lucrative contracts in future. 'I didn't really want to do it but that was what we did at the time,' he said. Between 2020 and 2024, Protection Barriers was awarded approximately $99 million worth of contracts and it is alleged that Mr Helmy received about $9m in kickbacks from the business, most of which was paid in cryptocurrency. A police search of Mr Helmy's premises in September last year seized 12 bars of silver weighing 1kg each, three platinum bars weighing 1 ounce each, 20 gold bullion nuggets and five gold bullion bars each weighing 1 ounce, nine 100 gram gold bullion bars and $12,317 in cash. The Crime Commission also found the equivalent of about $8 million in cryptocurrency stored in the account of an associate of Mr Helmy, the inquiry heard. Mr Helmy and Mr Chellew have not been charged with any criminal offence. This is the fourth public inquiry into TfNSW since 2019 and in his opening statement, Mr Ranken said: 'In each of the previous investigations, (other) TfNSW officials were found to have manipulated procurements and/or contract management processes for corrupt benefit. We expect the evidence is likely to establish that also to be the case in this investigation.'
ABC News
6 days ago
- Business
- ABC News
Whereabouts unknown of Ibrahim Helmy at the centre of ICAC inquiry into transport kickbacks
The alleged mastermind accused of rigging the awarding of $343 million in transport contracts is not expected to testify at a corruption inquiry as authorities don't know his whereabouts. At a hearing in Sydney on Monday, Counsel assisting the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), Rob Ranken, outlined allegations former Transport for NSW (TfNSW) employee Ibrahim Helmy received more than $11.5 million in corrupt rewards and benefits, including cryptocurrency, gold and cash payments. Mr Helmy arranged for four colleagues to ensure businesses he had corrupt relationships with would be awarded contract work valued from $12 million to $99 million, Mr Rankin alleged. Operation Wyvern — the fourth public inquiry into TfNSW since 2019 — has been investigating allegations of corrupt conduct since February last year in the arm responsible for building and maintaining the road network, Mr Ranken said. "In each of the previous investigations, [different] TfNSW officials were found to have manipulated procurements and/or contract management processes for corrupt benefit," he said in his opening statement. "We expect the evidence is likely to establish that also to be the case in this investigation." The corruption watchdog's investigation centres on Mr Helmy, who worked at TfNSW in different roles for 15 years until his employment was terminated in February, but encompasses a network of almost two dozen people. The ICAC has heard Mr Helmy allegedly took a series of corrupt actions to rig the process in which $343,139,770 in work contracts was awarded for roadworks from 2012 to 2025, so that businesses he allegedly had private dealings with would secure work. In exchange, Mr Ranken said the 38-year-old from Merrylands would be paid large sums of cash, cryptocurrency, gold and other valuables worth $11.5 million — some of it allegedly "cleaned" in bank accounts belonging to a friend. The inquiry heard the corruption allegations against Mr Helmy include stacking the panels responsible for awarding contracts for roadworks with people who would help the at least nine businesses that would allegedly pay him kickbacks. He also allegedly helped some of these businesses write their tenders, shared their competitors pricing with them and adjusted the rates in their competitor's submissions. He is also accused of helping the contractors he partnered with inflate their rates to make the scheme more lucrative, for both himself and the contractors. The ICAC said Mr Helmy targeted smaller businesses and allegedly courted their participation. Under the arrangement, counsel assisting said one business was awarded $99 million in work from April 2020 to September 2024. The ICAC also said Mr Helmy's alleged corrupt conduct helped secure work contracts for eight other companies between 2012 and this year. Mr Ranken said directors of some of the companies allegedly involved are expected to give evidence at the hearing. Authorities do not know the exact whereabouts of Mr Helmy, but believe he is still in the state. He was interviewed by the ICAC in September, but his compulsory examination was only part-heard. The inquiry heard that on December 22 last year, the ICAC was alerted he was at Sydney International Airport trying to depart to Shanghai on a US passport in his name, as his Australian passport was at the time held by the ICAC. "A family member has told the commission that Mr Helmy took the rubbish out on a Sunday night and did not return," Mr Ranken told the hearing. "The family has not reported him missing." NSW Police have issued a warrant for Mr Helmy's arrest after allegedly failing to appear before ICAC. Mr Ranken said ICAC officers, working with NSW Crime Commission and NSW Police, searched a number of properties on September 10, 2024. From Mr Helmy's properties, they allegedly seized $12,317 in cash, three red bags containing 20 gold bullion nuggets of 1 ounce, 12 bars of silver each weighing 1 kilogram, three 1 ounce platinum bars, five 1 ounce gold bullion bars and nine 100 gram gold bullion bars. The inquiry heard the Crime Commission also seized $413,000 worth of cryptocurrency held by Mr Helmy and $8 million in cryptocurrency from an account in an associate's name. Counsel assisting told the inquiry four other employees of Transport for NSW allegedly helped Mr Helmy award contracts to businesses with which he had dealings. All four colleagues allegedly received a financial benefit for helping Mr Helmy. At times, Counsel Assisting Mr Ranken had to refer to a chart to help explain the alleged corruption. "It is anticipated evidence will show that TfNSW failed to recognise red flags for corrupt conduct," he told the hearing. "This included an inadequate response to a report from a TfNSW employee alleging improper influence by Mr Helmy, which meant his scheme was not uncovered at that time. "It is of notable concern that the referral to the Commission which ultimately led to this investigation was received from a party external to TfNSW." The hearings are expected to continue for several weeks. No criminal charges have been laid in connection with the matters under investigation.
Yahoo
30-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Major change on Aussie roads to combat ongoing crisis: 'About time'
Across the country's most populous state, koalas are under enormous threat. Classified as endangered, local populations have drastically reduced by up to 60 per cent in the last 25 years. The 2019–2020 Black Summer bushfires alone resulted in the death of an estimated 6,382 koalas across NSW. Other factors, such as deforestation and collisions with cars, also continue to impact their numbers. In response, the state government has unveiled a new device designed to help koalas — and hopefully other animals — safely leave dangerous road corridors and return to their natural habitats. In a NSW-first, Transport for NSW (TfNSW) has now installed eight Fauna Escape Hatches along sections of the Hume Highway, including at Wilton, Nepean Bridge and Moolgun Creek Bridge. These locations were chosen because they already feature koala exclusion fencing and are supported by timber pole structures. The hatches form part of a broader, layered approach to wildlife protection, which also includes dedicated crossing points and fencing to keep animals off the roads. TfNSW plans to expand the use of these hatches to other high-priority koala habitats, including Deadmans Creek on Heathcote Road and Appin Road in southwest Sydney and eventually, further across the state. Speaking to Yahoo News, a TfNSW spokesperson said it is determining where the devices might be of most benefit. "We are examining how fauna escape hatches can be applied in other areas where there is high koala activity," they said. They will form part of several initiatives, including koala protection fencing, koala poles, three koala underpasses and signs to increase driver awareness." The one-way design includes angled aluminium or stainless-steel prongs that allow koalas to push through from one side but prevent them from re-entering the roadway. This aligns with koalas' instinctive behaviour to push under obstacles rather than climb over them. The hatch works best when installed alongside koala exclusion fencing, where it adds an extra layer of protection and can be retrofitted to existing infrastructure. Its primary aim is to reduce the risk of collisions between vehicles and wildlife, ultimately improving safety for both koalas and motorists. Originally developed by Endeavour Veterinary Ecology, the Fauna Escape Hatch underwent a 12-month field trial beginning in 2023 in Toorbul, Queensland. Incredible change on Aussie property amid critical fight for species Drivers warned over growing problem after grim roadside find Fears koalas on road to extinction as 'devastating' statistic revealed The trial involved tracking 85 wild koalas as part of an existing monitoring program and proved the hatch to be an effective alternative to other roadside escape solutions. The positive results have sparked interest from government agencies and conservation organisations across Australia. Many NSW residents applauded the move online, saying it was "about time" and suggested the state should have "more everywhere". Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week's best stories.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Aussie drivers warned about overlooked danger on country roads: 'Important'
Australians are being urged to take extra care on country roads, with alarming figures revealing that in just one state, 1,344 animal-related crashes over the past decade had claimed 27 lives and injured more than 1,500 people. The sobering figures were released by Transport for NSW as it launched its annual "Animals on Country Roads" public education initiative, which will run from May 19 to June 30. The campaign serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by wildlife and livestock on rural roads, especially during high-risk times like sunrise and sunset. Speaking to Yahoo News, Deputy Secretary of Safety Policy at Transport for NSW (TfNSW), Sally Web, said driving on country roads often involves livestock and wildlife that can be unpredictable and move quickly. "It's important to always take care, follow the road signs and expect the unexpected when driving around animals to ensure we protect both human lives and our wildlife," she said. Webb said "one in every 41 crashes on country roads involves a vehicle hitting an animal", underscoring the need for increased vigilance from motorists and riders. Between 2014 and 2023, southern NSW recorded the highest number of animal-related crashes that resulted in fatalities or injuries. There were 505 such crashes in the region, with four people killed and 135 seriously injured. Northern NSW followed closely behind with 500 crashes, nine fatalities, and 197 people seriously injured. "Animals can be more active at sunrise and sunset, when visibility is reduced. Stay alert when driving on country roads and if you see an animal when driving or riding, don't panic, apply your brakes carefully and in a controlled manner and don't swerve to avoid an animal," Webb said. Tragic detail in roadside photo prompts urgent call to action Incredible twist after emu killed on Aussie highway Sad sound in truckie footage shows brutal reality of Australian roads While there are currently no plans to increase penalties for speeding in wildlife-prone areas, TfNSW said it is investing in smarter ways to reduce crashes. Last year, TfNSW hosted a major international symposium in Sydney, bringing together global experts to explore innovative ways to reduce wildlife road strikes. Insights from the event informed a new Future Directions report, developed to guide the state's investment in emerging road safety technologies. Among the first technologies being trialled are lighter coloured paving—designed to improve nighttime visibility and help drivers spot animals sooner—and AI-assisted animal detection systems linked to smart signage. These advanced systems aim to deliver real-time alerts, giving motorists time to slow down and potentially avoid dangerous collisions. These emerging solutions will be used alongside existing wildlife mitigation infrastructure already in place across parts of the state. That includes fenced road corridors with one-way escape routes, wildlife overpasses and underpasses, glide poles and rope crossings for tree-dwelling animals, and enhanced advisory signage and road markings. "Drivers are reminded to comply with speed limits and be mindful of warning signs and other wildlife safety measures across the network," Webb added. "Every death on our roads is one too many, which is why we are committed to our goal of reducing road trauma to zero in NSW. Road safety is a shared responsibility, and we can all start by making safer decisions every time we get behind the wheel." To help reduce the risk of collisions, motorists are urged to: Reduce speed and stay on the lookout for wildlife near the roadside Stay alert, as animals can be fast and unpredictable Brake safely, avoiding abrupt movements Avoid swerving, which can cause loss of control Follow animal warning signs and stay prepared to stop Report injured wildlife to WIRES at 1300 094 737 or use the IFAW Wildlife Rescue app. Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? 🐊🦘😳 Get our new newsletter showcasing the week's best stories.
News.com.au
24-04-2025
- News.com.au
Update as father of Hunter Valley bus crash victim sues Transport for NSW for alleged breaches in duty of care
The father of one of the victims of the Hunter Valley bus crash that killed another nine and injured 25 is suing Transport for NSW, claiming the agency breached its duty of care. Ten people died and more than two-dozen others suffered injuries when the bus flipped on Wine Country Drive near Greta on the way back from a wedding reception. The bus driver, Brett Button, was last year sentenced to 32 years behind bars with a non-parole period of 24 years for his role in the crash. He pleaded guilty to 10 counts of dangerous driving occasioning death and nine of dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm. A court was previously told Button had taken 'significantly more' than his prescribed dosage of the opioid-based painkiller Tramadol on the day of the crash. He had been stood down by a previous employer just a year prior after a pain specialist found he was addicted to Tramadol — which he'd been taking since the 1990s — and he did not tell operator Linq Buslines he was using the painkiller. Among the victims of the tragedy was 29-year-old Zach Bray. His father Adam Bray is now suing Transport for NSW (TfNSW) in the Supreme Court over an alleged breach in duty of care by the agency. A substantive statement of claim was filed on Mr Bray's behalf last year, arguing TfNSW breached its duty of care in a number of instances, including having inadequate road warning signage along Wine Country Drive. It further alleged signs incorrectly described the stretch of road as a roundabout, claiming it was instead an 'elliptically shaped interchange feature' to which different considerations and dynamics applied. The matter was briefly heard in the NSW Supreme Court on Thursday morning. Representing TfNSW, Moray and Agnew's Brian Moroney told the court a cross-claim was in draft form. It is as yet unclear who this will be filed against. Justice Peter Garling ordered the defence file and serve all cross-claims by May 1, with the case to return to court on May 16. The lawsuit is seeking damages and costs for both Mr Bray as well as on behalf of those directly injured physically and/or psychologically and psychiatrically in the crash, as well as those suffering 'pure mental harm'. The statement of claim filed last year argued TfNSW owed the public using Wine Country Drive a duty of care, and listed a comprehensive list of alleged breaches. It argued a circular interchange on Wine Country Drive would have been safer 'and was therefore desirable if space permitted', and that there was inadequate road warning signage in place regarding hazards in the interchange, including the 'tightening radius'. Not having specific signage that the interchange could potentially be dangerous to commercial buses, including by way of a tilting truck symbol or equivalent, as well as a lack of appropriate advisory signage related to reduced speed for commercial buses, was also outlined in the claim. It suggested a run-off area may have offered a 'more forgiving roadside area' in cases of vehicles running off the road, as opposed to safety barriers, and also claimed construction and post construction audits were 'inadequate to identify the unsafe design and construction of the interchange'. The breaches 'gave rise to a real and significant risk' that a driver of a heavy vehicle, including a passenger bus, with a raised centre of gravity 'could nonetheless lose control of the vehicle, trip the vehicle causing it to fall onto its side and come into collision with the adjacent guard rails', the statement of claim alleged. This included where drivers were exercising reasonable care 'having regard to what the driver reasonably considered was a reasonable speed to travel in the interchange'. Vegetation in the island of the interchange was also cited as limiting the line of sight of drivers, which could deprive drivers of the ability to see a 'visually subtle but nonetheless critical change in road alignment' in reference to the tightening curve of the road. Mr Bray has also launched a class action against TfNSW for anyone who suffered damages or loss as a result of the crash, which included those directly injured, suffering mental harm, and insurers who have paid out claims for injured or deceased victims.
