Mark Latham Denies Domestic Violence Allegations From Former Partner

NSW MP Mark Latham, who has previously faced multiple allegations of inappropriate behaviour towards women, has firmly denied claims of domestic violence made by his former girlfriend Nathalie Matthews.

In an interview aired on Sydney’s 2SM radio station on Wednesday, Latham called the allegations “ridiculous” and accused both the media and political opponents of orchestrating a “personal or political campaign to try and damage me”.

In documents submitted to the NSW Local Court, Matthews alleged Latham engaged in a “sustained pattern” of emotional, psychological and financial manipulation during their relationship.

Her application for a private Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) includes claims that Latham pressured her to have sex with others, participate in degrading sexual acts, and even struck her with his car’s side mirror.

During the interview with host Chris Smith, Latham categorically denied the accusations: “Absolutely not. That’s ridiculous. That’s just preposterous.”

When asked whether he had contacted Matthews since their relationship ended on 27 May, Latham responded, “Ask the NSW Police,” claiming that he had ceased all communication apart from returning her belongings and settling shared ownership of a racehorse.

He went on to dismiss the AVO process itself, saying: “The bar now for getting an AVO is very, very low. The whole bunch of groups complain or they hand these things out like confetti.”

According to the NSW Police website, an AVO is a court order designed to protect individuals who fear violence or intimidation. Police have a duty to apply for an Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) if they believe such an order is necessary to ensure the safety of a victim.

The Daily Telegraph previously reported that Latham had sent sexually explicit WhatsApp messages to Matthews while in the NSW Upper House, referring to himself as “master”.

He responded by saying the messages were “edited” and “lacked context”, describing the reference to an “F parlour” as an in-joke.

Prior misconduct allegations

This is not the first time Latham has drawn criticism for his behaviour toward women.

In 2015, he resigned as a columnist for the Australian Financial Review after posting a series of derogatory tweets aimed at female journalists.

Earlier this year, he was ordered to pay $140,000 in damages to independent MP Alex Greenwich for making defamatory and sexually explicit remarks on social media. The court found his comments to be demeaning and injurious.

Matthews’ AVO application is scheduled to be heard at the Downing Centre Local Court on 30 July.

Latham has stated that he will “defend himself in court” but declined to comment further.

You are not alone. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual or family violence and needs support, you can 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
• Alan Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467
• Mensline 1300789978
• Alcohol and Drug Information Service: 1800 250 015
• QLife (3pm to midnight): 1800 184 527
• 13YARN (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander line) – 13 92 76