Independent NSW MP Mark Latham Admits Sexting During Question Time Amid Abuse Allegations

Independent NSW MP Mark Latham admitted to sending sexually explicit messages from the parliamentary chamber but denied allegations of domestic abuse made by his ex-partner, Nathalie Matthews. Matthews accused Latham of a sustained pattern of psychological, financial, and emotional abuse, including coercion into degrading sexual acts and controlling behavior, claims which Latham described as "comically false and ridiculous." Leaked WhatsApp messages revealed explicit content, which Latham argued were taken out of context and part of a personal or political campaign to damage him. Premier Chris Minns criticized Latham's conduct as inappropriate and unacceptable, emphasizing public expectations for MPs to focus on parliamentary duties. Matthews has applied for an apprehended violence order against Latham, while he maintains that his relationship was consensual and defends having a private sex life. The ex-husband of Matthews publicly distanced himself from the controversy amid the allegations and fallout.