Thomas Kelsall
Independent MP for Narungga, Sam Ellis, has been charged with fraud following a lengthy investigation. In 2021, he faced 23 counts of making fraudulent claims for the country members’ allowance between May 13, 2018, and June 12, 2020. The charges arose from an Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) inquiry that alleged Ellis claimed accommodation expenses for overnight stays in Adelaide when he was not actually in the city.
During the trial, Ellis maintained his innocence and pleaded not guilty to all charges. However, on Monday, the Magistrates Court delivered its verdict, finding him guilty on four counts while acquitting him of the remaining 19.
Speaking to reporters outside the court, Ellis expressed his surprise at the outcome. “I did not expect the outcome having sat through that trial. I showed up today and hoped to be fully acquitted,” he stated. He emphasized the need to consult with his legal team to understand the judgement before deciding on potential appeal options.
The court will reconvene on September 4 for sentencing submissions, which will determine Ellis’s future as an MP. When asked about the viability of his parliamentary position, he asserted, “I believe so.” He reflected on his six-year tenure, proud of the investments he brought to the region, and expressed his intention to continue serving until directed otherwise.
Ellis resigned from the Liberal Party in February 2021 upon revealing the charges related to the ICAC investigation, which led to a minority government. Since then, he has served as an independent MP, winning re-election in 2022.