Pauline Hanson’s political ambitions are undimmed, despite a failed NSW election challenge that has left state taxpayers with a hefty legal bill of more than $150,000. The One Nation founder was yesterday again widely criticised for launching the case, which was based on what turned out to be a bogus email sent to her by Sydney man Sean Castle who used a false name.
But Ms Hanson said she would think about running again for the NSW parliament after she narrowly missed out on winning an upper house spot at the March 26 poll. “I have received tremendous support from the public,” said the former Queenslander who now lives in NSW.
NSW Supreme Court judge Peter McClellan yeaterday formally dismissed Ms Hanson’s challenge and recommended all legal costs, estimated to be “well in excess” of $150,000, be paid by the crown.
However, Mr Castle, a teacher from Glendinning in Sydney’s western suburbs, could face prosecution after Justice McClellan recommended his involvement in the hoax be referred to NSW Attorney-General Greg Smith. Mr Smith said the case merited investigation and that he would consult police.
“It’s certainly a serious matter that needs careful investigation,” he told reporters in Sydney.
Ms Hanson said Mr Castle should be prosecuted.
But the Greens’ Jeremy Buckingham, one of the MPs who faced losing their seat had Ms Hanson’s challenge succeeded, remained outraged the legal action had gone ahead at all.
Full Article: Taxpayers hit for Hansons failed election challenge.