Former politician Gareth Ward, aged 44, has been sentenced to five years and nine months in prison for sexual crimes against two young men. The sentencing took place at the Parramatta District Court on Friday, October 30, 2025. Ward appeared via video link from the Cessnock Correctional Centre, where he has been held since July after his conviction.
Charges and Convictions
Ward was found guilty by a jury of one count of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault. The offences involved two men he met through his professional life. The first victim was 18 years old in 2013 at Ward’s home in Meroo Meadow, and the second was 24 years old in 2015 following an event at NSW Parliament House in Potts Point, Sydney. Ward denied the charges and pleaded not guilty throughout the trial.
Gareth Ward was found guilty earlier this year of sexually abusing two young men
Sentence Details and Court Proceedings
Judge Kara Shead SC delivered the sentence, specifying that Ward’s criminal acts were “deliberate and predatory”. She handed down a sentence of five years and nine months, with a non-parole period of three years and nine months. Ward will have to serve at least this non-parole term before eligibility for parole. The sentence includes time already served, so his earliest possible release date could be April 2029.
The case experienced delays as legal arguments arose over whether Ward should be sentenced under laws that applied at the time of the offences or according to current sentencing standards. Judge Shead noted the need to send a “stern message” that sexual offences of this nature carry heavy penalties.
Victims’ Impact Statements and Court Remarks
Both victims attended the sentencing remotely and displayed considerable courage. The elder victim shared that the abuse caused trauma, suicidal thoughts, and ongoing struggles with depression, flashbacks, and substance issues. The younger victim said the rape shattered his trust, friendships, and will to live. Judge Shead praised their bravery and acceptance of their accounts. She acknowledged the younger victim’s reaction to the assault as a common “freeze response” and pointed out the misconception that victims should physically resist or call for help.
Legal Blindness and Appeal Plans
Ward’s defence highlighted his legal blindness and lack of prior offences, which contributed to the reduced non-parole period. Following sentencing, his legal team indicated plans to appeal the guilty verdicts. Ward had attempted to retain his parliamentary seat after the conviction but resigned prior to expulsion from the assembly.
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Political Career and Background
Ward was first elected as a Liberal MP for the coastal town of Kiama in New South Wales in 2011. He was appointed parliamentary secretary in 2015 and then served as Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services after the 2019 election. In 2021, allegations emerged, causing him to step down as a minister. Despite this, he remained in parliament as an independent and was re-elected in 2023 before his resignation post-conviction.
Allegations emerged in 2021, causing Ward to step down as a minister
Summary
Gareth Ward, once a prominent New South Wales politician, now faces significant prison time following convictions for serious sexual offences. The court’s firm sentence reflects the severity of the crimes and the broader public interest in holding offenders accountable. The victims’ testimonies underscored the lasting impact of Ward’s actions. The legal process underscored the complexities of applying sentencing laws retroactively and balancing factors such as disability and prior conduct in determining punishments.
This sentencing marks a decisive moment in Australian politics and justice, emphasising that no individual is above the law regarding sexual offences. Ward’s case serves as a strong precedent for stern penalties in similar future cases.
