Ex-Official Tells Inquiry of Threat From Developer

David Chandler, the former New South Wales building commissioner, has told the state's corruption watchdog, Icac, that a property developer once threatened him during a phone call. Chandler said the developer, Jean Nassif, warned him, 'If you harm my project, I'll harm you.'

Chandler described Nassif as 'loud and overbearing', recalling repeated clashes between the two men while Chandler held the commissioner role, a position created to improve oversight of building safety and construction standards in the state.

Nassif has since become a fugitive, having reportedly left Australia and avoided facing legal proceedings. The summary does not specify further details about his current whereabouts or the charges he may face.

The comments were made as part of an ongoing Icac inquiry examining alleged misconduct connected to Nassif's development projects, along with possible links to the New South Wales branch of the Liberal Party.

Chandler's testimony adds to growing scrutiny of the relationship between developers, regulators and political figures in the state. As building commissioner, Chandler was tasked with enforcing stricter compliance rules following a series of high-profile construction failures.

Icac hearings often draw significant public attention because they can expose conduct that would otherwise remain hidden from public view, particularly where it involves powerful figures in industry or government.

The inquiry is continuing, and further witnesses are expected to give evidence in the coming weeks. It remains unclear what direct consequences, if any, Nassif could face given his status as a fugitive outside Australian jurisdiction.