Mark Latham Addresses Multiple Allegations in Blustering Briefing

NSW MP Mark Latham has again denied domestic violence and misconduct allegations in a 40-minute press conference that strayed from the accusations, spiralling into attacks on political rivals, journalists, and even an odd pop culture aside.

The Independent upper house MP, facing an aggravated violence order (AVO) application from former girlfriend Nathalie Matthews, insisted he had “broken no law” and called the claims against him “nonsense, complete nonsense.”

Latham addressed allegations that he had sex with Matthews inside state parliament, refusing to directly deny the claim but rejecting reports of any recordings. “I have checked my devices and I can’t find any material,” he told reporters, according to 9News.

But the conference quickly descended into a free-wheeling speech.

MP Mark Latham goes off track with political jabs and offhand comments

Latham accused NSW Premier Chris Minns of being “blissfully ignored” by his upper house colleagues and criticised journalists covering the event.

“You’re shaking there, you must be worried about your own voyeur. Oww, shaky fake media,” he said at one point.

The briefing also included an offbeat reference to 1970s television. “You know that old Happy Days character Howdy-Doody—no one here is that old, okay,” Latham quipped.

Nathalie Matthews responds as AVO hearing nears

Matthews released a brief statement following his remarks. “I am aware of the comments made by Mr. Latham today and as the matter is before the court, I will not make any further remarks at this time,” she said.

“I require the privacy that I deserve whilst I go through this stressful period.”

Matthews’ AVO hearing is scheduled for 30 July at the Downing Centre Local Court.

Further misconduct claims add pressure from fellow MPs

The media appearance followed a turbulent week for Mark Latham.

Reports have alleged that he took photos of female colleagues during parliamentary sessions, made disparaging private comments about them, and participated in a consensual sex video filmed in his office, which he has denied.

Posting on X, Latham said his private messages had been “cherry-picked” and dismissed the allegations as out of context. “There’s no suggestion of any law or rule broken,” he added.

Premier Minns has since called for a privileges committee investigation, saying Latham’s alleged behaviour would “almost certainly” breach parliamentary standing orders if proven.

Upper house leader Penny Sharpe confirmed she would move a referral motion over Latham’s alleged use of parliamentary privilege to reveal confidential details from a psychologist’s report involving MP Alex Greenwich.

Latham dismissed the move, saying his remarks “were not based on confidential information.”

Earlier on 2SM radio, he defended his position. “They’ve got a rigorous process there about behaviour inside the parliament. I’ve never received notification of any complaint. So for any of you saying kick him off, what happened to innocent until proven guilty?”

With a court hearing set for 30 July and political pressure mounting, Latham faces questions about his future with his term not due to expire until 2031.

If you or someone you know has been affected by domestic, sexual or family violence and needs support, contact:

• 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732
• Lifeline: 13 11 14
• LGBTQ+ Rainbow Sexual, Domestic & Family Violence Service Help Line: 1800 385 578
• NSW Mental Health Access Line: 1800 011 511
• Mensline: 1300789978
• 13YARN (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander line): 13 92 76