Opinion

Letter to the editor | Banksia punishment inadequate

By Contributed

May 26, 2026

Letter to the editor. Photo by Megan Fisher

I have followed the Banksia case for many years and know people who lost their life savings.

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To discover that the barrister who represented them allegedly went on to further exploit vulnerable victims for his own gain — and then target someone courageous enough to speak up — is beyond disgusting. It is a staggering betrayal of trust by a man entrusted with upholding the law.

What is even more sickening is that this fraudster has avoided jail altogether. How is that possible? Ordinary Australians are entitled to wonder whether wealth, status and powerful connections once again delivered a different standard of justice.

It raises disturbing questions about his dealings over the years — with the corporate watchdog, through his charity involvement, and with the many clients who placed their trust in him. How many others were deceived?

It should not matter what elite school someone attended, what influential circles they move in, or what prestigious boards they sit on. Dishonesty is dishonesty.

Six hundred hours of community service is an insult to every victim who lost their savings, their security and, in some cases, their health and peace of mind. The punishment is laughably inadequate for conduct so dishonest and morally repugnant.

Sue McNamara

Rye