Michael Pezzullo’s future in ‘grave doubt’ as leaked texts get put to independent review

Sky News Political Editor Andrew Clennell says Michael Pezzullo has been forced to stand aside as the Public Service Commissioner reviews leaked encrypted messages to Liberal powerbroker Scott Briggs.

Home Affairs Secretary Michael Pezzullo was referred to the Australian Public Service Commissioner by Minister Clare O’Neil after a joint investigation by 60 Minutes, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald revealed explosive texts showed the public servant disparaging rivals and apparently offering input on political decisions.

“Home Affairs department boss Michael Pezzullo has been forced to stand aside and his future appears in grave doubt,” Mr Clennell said.

“He was referred by his minister to the Public Service Commissioner after the leaking of more than a thousand encrypted messages that he sent to a friend of then prime minister Scott Morrison, Scott Briggs.

“The leaked messages appear to show Mr Pezzullo was trying to be a player behind the scenes in the political process – which senior public servants shouldn’t do.”