John Barilaro

{{Infobox officeholder

| honorific-prefix = The Honourable

| honorific-suffix =

| image = File:John Barilaro 2016.jpg

| caption = Barilaro in 2016

| order = 18th

| office = Deputy Premier of New South Wales

| term_start = 15 November 2016

| term_end = 6 October 2021

| predecessor = Troy Grant

| successor = Paul Toole

| premier = Mike Baird
Gladys Berejiklian
Dominic Perrottet

| office1 = Leader of the National Party in New South Wales

| term_start1 = 15 November 2016

| term_end1 = 6 October 2021

| predecessor1 = Troy Grant

| premier1 = Mike Baird
Gladys Berejiklian
Dominic Perrottet

| deputy1 = Niall Blair
Paul Toole

| successor1 = Paul Toole {{Collapsed infobox section begin|Ministerial positions|titlestyle=background-color:#eee}}

| office2 = Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade

| premier2 = Gladys Berejiklian

| term_start2 = 2 April 2019

| term_end2 = 4 October 2021

| predecessor2 = Himself {{small|(as Minister for Regional New South Wales)}}
Niall Blair {{small|(as Minister for Trade and Industry)}}

| successor2 = {{ubl|Stuart Ayres {{small|(as Minister for Trade and Industry)}}|Paul Toole {{small|(as Minister for Regional New South Wales)}}}}

| office3 = Minister for Regional Development /
Minister for Regional New South Wales

| premier3 = Mike Baird
Gladys Berejiklian

| term_start3 = 2 April 2015

| term_end3 = 23 March 2019

| predecessor3 = Troy Grant {{small|(as Minister for Regional Infrastructure and Services)}}

| successor3 = himself {{small|(as Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade)}}

| office4 = Minister for Small Business

| premier4 = Mike Baird
Gladys Berejiklian

| term_start4 = 17 October 2014

| term_end4 = 23 March 2019

| predecessor4 = Andrew Stoner

| successor4 = Damien Tudehope {{small|(as Minister for Finance and Small Business)}}

| office5 = Minister for Skills

| premier5 = Mike Baird
Gladys Berejiklian

| term_start5 = 2 April 2015

| term_end5 = 23 March 2019

| predecessor5 = Verity Firth {{small|(as Minister for Education and Training)}}

| successor5 = Geoff Lee {{small|(as Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education)}}

| office6 = Minister for Regional Tourism

| premier6 = Mike Baird

| term_start6 = 17 October 2014

| term_end6 = 2 April 2015

| predecessor6 = Katrina Hodgkinson

| successor6 = Stuart Ayres {{small|(as Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events)}} {{Collapsed infobox section end}}

| constituency_MP7 = Monaro

| parliament7 = New South Wales

| term_start7 = 26 March 2011

| term_end7 = 31 December 2021

| predecessor7 = Steve Whan

| successor7 = Nichole Overall

| majority7 = 11.61% (2019)

| birth_name = Giovanni Domenic Barilaro

| birth_date = {{birth date and age|df=yes|1971|11|14}}

| birth_place = {{nowrap|Queanbeyan, New South Wales,}} Australia

| death_date =

| death_place =

| party = National

| relations =

| spouse = Deanna Barilaro (c. 1995–2021)

| children = 3 (f)

| residence =

| nationality = Australian

| occupation = Small business owner

| profession =

| religion =

| footnotes =

}}

Giovanni Domenic Barilaro ({{IPA|it|d͡ʒoˈvan.ni doˈme.nik ˈba.ri.la.ro|lang}}; born 14 November 1971{{cite news|url=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/the-queanbeyan-factory-that-produced-a-nationals-leader-20161115-gsq0qu.html|last=Le Lievre|first=Kimberley|title=The Queanbeyan factory that produced a Nationals leader|newspaper=Canberra Times|date=15 November 2016}}) is an Australian former politician who served as the 18th deputy premier of New South Wales and the leader of the NSW National Party from 2016 to 2021. He was the Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade in the second Berejiklian ministry from April 2019,{{Gazette NSW |title=Government Notices |issue=30 |page=1088-1090 |date=2 April 2019 |url=https://gazette.legislation.nsw.gov.au/so/download.w3p?id=Gazette_2019_2019-30.pdf |access-date=3 April 2019 |via= }}{{cite press release|url=https://www.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/news/premier-announces-new-cabinet/|title=Premier announces new Cabinet|publisher=Premier of New South Wales|date=31 March 2019|access-date=3 April 2019|archive-date=10 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200310145752/https://www.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/news/premier-announces-new-cabinet/|url-status=dead}}{{cite news |author=Han, Sophie |url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/berejiklian-s-new-massive-cabinet-sworn-in-amid-peals-of-laughter-20190402-p519wj.html |title=Berejiklian's new massive cabinet sworn in amid peals of laughter |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |date=2 April 2019 |access-date=3 April 2019 }} and a member of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly representing the electoral district of Monaro since 2011 until his resignation in October 2021.{{cite NSW Parliament |id=85 |name=The Hon. (John) Giovanni Domenic Barilaro, MP |access-date=16 May 2022}}

Barilaro previously served as the Minister for Regional Development (later renamed Minister for Regional New South Wales{{cite news|agency=Australian Associated Press|title=Refreshed NSW cabinet sworn in|url=http://www.skynews.com.au/news/top-stories/2017/01/30/refreshed-nsw-cabinet-to-be-sworn-in.html|access-date=30 January 2017|work=Sky News|location=Australia|date=30 January 2017|archive-date=30 June 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210630021006/https://www.skynews.com.au/news/top-stories/2017/01/30/refreshed-nsw-cabinet-to-be-sworn-in.html|url-status=dead}}), Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Skills in the first Berejiklian and second Baird governments, from October 2014 until March 2019; and as the Minister for Regional Tourism in the first Baird government. In October 2021, he announced his resignation as Deputy Premier, Leader of the National Party and member for Monaro, saying it was "the right time for me to hand the reins over".{{Cite news|last=Tsikas|first=Mick|date=2021-10-03|title=John Barilaro resigns as NSW Deputy Premier, will also leave Parliament|language=en-AU|work=ABC News|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-10-04/nsw-deputy-premier-john-barilaro-resigns/100511638|access-date=2021-10-03 |agency=AAP}}

He is also known for Barilaro v Shanks-Markovina, a defamation lawsuit brought against Jordan Shanks for Shanks' YouTube channel friendlyjordies, and Google as the publisher of the videos, as well as referring Shanks and a producer to the NSW Police Fixated Persons Unit, causing the producer, Kristo Langker, to be arrested on charges of stalking that were ultimately dismissed in March 2022. The defamation lawsuit resulted in Shanks making an apology to Barilaro in 2021 along with editing some parts of the videos, while Google was ordered to pay him $715,000 in damages.

His attempt at a post-political career as the New South Wales trade commissioner to the United States resulted in a political scandal for NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet, after a series of embarrassing disclosures over Barilaro's creation of the highly paid role prior to his departure from Parliament, and the role of NSW Government ministers and public servants in the process. That process saw the originally successful applicant fired from her public service job. An additional round of applications began, Barilaro was the second ranked candidate prior to discussions with his CV references. He ultimately won the job and had his position confirmed but the scandal erupted in the middle of 2022 and he quit prior to moving to New York. The issue was referred to the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption, and minister Stuart Ayres resigned from his cabinet role over the matter.{{cite web | url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/john-barilaro-allegedly-told-former-chief-of-staff-he-would-have-new-york-trade-role-made-for-him/0a9481bf-f4e5-485b-819e-193dde8d6141 | title='I'm off to New York': John Barilaro allegedly told staffer he would have trade role made for him, inquiry hears | date=20 July 2022 }}{{cite web | url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/commentisfree/2022/jun/24/john-barilaro-new-york-job-us-trade-commissioner-appointment | title=John Barilaro's New York trade job may be completely above board, but it needs scrutiny | Anthony Whealy | website=TheGuardian.com | date=24 June 2022 }} Barilaro was involved in a physical altercation with a cameraman in 2022 and was charged with assault; however, the charges were dropped the following year due to concerns over his mental health.

Early years and background

Barilaro was born in Queanbeyan to immigrant parents from Calabria, Italy.{{cite news|url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/john-barilaro-on-cooking-seafood-and-a-pie-shop-accord-20200626-p556e9.html|title=John Barilaro on cooking seafood and a pie shop accord|work=The Sydney Morning Herald|first=Alexandra|last=Smith|date=3 July 2020|access-date=13 July 2020}} After leaving school he worked for his family's business, Ryleho, a business that manufactures energy-efficient timber windows and doors, eventually as manager.{{cite news|url=https://citynews.com.au/2019/curtains-for-barilaro-window-company|title=Curtains drawn on Barilaro window company failure|work=CBR City News|first=Ian|last=Meikle|date=6 September 2019|access-date=5 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220801062243/https://citynews.com.au/2019/curtains-for-barilaro-window-company|archive-date=1 August 2022}} He has campaigned within his local community for a high school for the growing suburb of Jerrabomberra, and helped found the Monaro Panthers Football Club, before serving for eight years as its club president.{{cite web|url=http://www.qcc.nsw.gov.au/external/AboutCouncil/ElectedMembers/Profiles/johnbarilaro|title=Clr John Barilaro|work=Council Elected Members|publisher=Queanbeyan City Council|year=2011|access-date=3 April 2011}}{{cite web|url=http://nsw.nationals.org.au/our-team/my-electorate/monaro.html |title=John Barilaro – Candidate for Monaro |work=The Nationals team |publisher=National Party |year=2011 |access-date=3 April 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110218033048/http://nsw.nationals.org.au/our-team/my-electorate/monaro.html |archive-date=18 February 2011 }}{{cite news|author=Green, Antony|author-link=Antony Green|url=http://www.abc.net.au/elections/nsw/2011/guide/mona.htm|title=Monaro|work=NSW Votes 2011|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=1 April 2011|access-date=2 April 2011}}

Political career

= Early work =

Barilaro was elected as an independent councillor of Queanbeyan City Council in 2008 and served on the council until he ran for the National Party in the seat of Monaro at the 2011 state election. He won the seat from incumbent Labor Minister Steve Whan with an 8.2-point swing to the Nationals.{{cite news|date=29 March 2011|title=Steve Whan concedes defeat|work=ABC News|location=Australia|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/03/29/3176867.htm?site=riverina|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121112130918/http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/03/29/3176867.htm?site=riverina|url-status=dead|archive-date=12 November 2012|access-date=2020-05-07}}

Following the resignation of Andrew Stoner in October 2014, Barilaro was appointed to the first Baird ministry as the Minister for Small Business and the Minister for Regional Tourism.{{cite news|author=Nicholls, Sean|date=17 October 2014|title=John Barilaro elevated as Andrew Stoner suddenly quits cabinet|work=The Sydney Morning Herald|url=http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/john-barilaro-elevated-as-andrew-stoner-suddenly-quits-cabinet-20141017-117i9h.html|access-date=9 January 2015}} Baird rearranged his ministry following the 2015 state election, and Barilaro was sworn in as the Minister for Regional Development, the Minister for Skills, and the Minister for Small Business in the second Baird government.{{cite news|last=Hasham|first=Nicole|date=3 April 2015|title=Premier Mike Baird's new NSW cabinet sworn in: Gladys Berejiklian and Gabrielle Upton first female Treasurer and Attorney-General|newspaper=The Sydney Morning Herald|url=http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/premier-mike-bairds-new-nsw-cabinet-sworn-in-gladys-berejiklian-and-gabrielle-upton-first-female-treasurer-and-attorneygeneral-20150402-1mdjb7.html|access-date=6 April 2015}}

= Deputy Premier =

On 15 November 2016, Barilaro was elected unopposed as leader of the National Party in New South Wales, following the resignation of Troy Grant.{{cite news|date=15 November 2016|title=John Barilaro elected as leader of NSW Nationals|language=en-AU|work=ABC News|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-11-15/john-barilaro-new-leader-nsw-nationals/8025704|access-date=15 November 2016}} Following the resignation of Mike Baird and the election of Gladys Berejiklian as Leader of the New South Wales Liberal Party, Barilaro led The Nationals to form the Liberal-National coalition in the Berejiklian ministry that was sworn in on 23 January 2017.{{cite web|date=23 January 2017|title=Swearing-In of The Honourable Gladys Berejiklian MP, the 45th Premier of New South Wales, and The Honourable John Barilaro MP, Deputy Premier|url=https://www.governor.nsw.gov.au/governor/vice-regal-program/monday-23-january-2017/|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170202042336/https://www.governor.nsw.gov.au/governor/vice-regal-program/monday-23-january-2017/|archive-date=2 February 2017|access-date=27 January 2017|website=Vice Regal Program|publisher=Governor of New South Wales}}{{cite web|title=Ministers|url=https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/members/pages/ministers.aspx|access-date=27 January 2017|website=www.parliament.nsw.gov.au|publisher=Parliament of New South Wales}}{{cite news|last1=Clennell|first1=Andrew|date=26 January 2017|title=Premier Gladys Berejiklian plans major reshuffle for cabinet|work=The Daily Telegraph|url=http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/premier-gladys-berejiklian-plans-major-reshuffle-for-cabinet/news-story/1bb77d4e287dc82004f80186e40d18f0|access-date=27 January 2017}}

On 1 December 2017, Barilaro called for Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to resign as a "Christmas gift" to Australians. Turnbull subsequently accused Barilaro of "trying to ingratiate himself" with radio presenter Alan Jones. Turnbull also stated he had called Barilaro and left a message after previous criticism, but had not heard back, and suggested Barilaro should have expressed his view to Turnbull personally, rather than "bagging [him] in the media". Several federal ministers, including Julie Bishop and Mathias Cormann were also critical of Barilaro, with Cormann stating: "He is not a federal member of parliament, I don't know him, I have never met him, it is a regrettable comment, it is uncalled for, it is wrong, I reject it".{{cite news|date=1 December 2017|title='Turnbull is the problem': NSW Deputy Premier says PM must go|newspaper=ABC News|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-12-01/barilaro-calls-on-malcolm-turnbull-to-resign/9214134|access-date=1 December 2017}}

Following the 2019 state election, Barilaro was sworn in as the Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade in the second Berejiklian ministry, with effect from 2 April 2019.{{cite news|author=Sas, Nick|date=31 March 2019|title=Gladys Berejiklian says Liberal Party has no women problem as re-elected NSW Premier shuffles Cabinet|work=ABC News|location=Australia|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-03-31/cabinet-reshuffle-after-nsw-election-from-berejiklian/10956776|access-date=3 April 2019}}

In April 2020, Barilaro expressed anger{{Cite news|date=2020-04-08|title='The perception is horrible': Minister sprung staying at holiday house fined by police, Premier orders him back to Sydney|language=en-AU|work=ABC News|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-09/nsw-coronavirus-infections-continue-to-drop/12134626|access-date=2021-12-15}} at fellow Minister Don Harwin after revelations he had traveled to his Central Coast holiday house despite bans on non-essential travel. Barilaro, who led the government's calls for 'city people to stay out of the regions' during the COVID-19 lockdowns,{{cite journal|url=https://www.nsw.gov.au/news/please-cancel-travel-to-regional-nsw|website=NSW Government|publisher=NSW Government|title=Please cancel travel to regional NSW|date=31 March 2020| access-date=27 July 2022|language=en-AU}} however, was accused of "gross hypocrisy"{{Cite web|last=Smith|first=Alexandra|date=7 May 2020|title='Gross hypocrisy': Barilaro accused of double standards over farm visit|url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/gross-hypocrisy-barilaro-accused-of-double-standards-over-farm-visit-20200507-p54qpr.html|access-date=15 December 2021|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|language=en}} by members of his own government, after it was revealed he spent a weekend 'on the farm' building a cubby house with his daughter (a 7-bedroom French provincial estate).{{Cite web|date=6 May 2020|title=NSW deputy premier spent weekend 'on the farm' despite telling public not to travel|url=http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/may/07/nsw-deputy-premier-spent-weekend-on-the-farm-despite-telling-public-not-to-travel|access-date=15 December 2021|website=the Guardian|language=en}} Following an investigation into the incident, NSW Police ruled Barilaro did not breach coronavirus restrictions by making the trip and in a statement Barilaro said he went to the farm to "feed chickens, mow lawns and tend to maintenance".{{Cite news|date=7 May 2020|title=Police clear NSW Deputy Premier of breaching coronavirus restrictions on farm trip|language=en-AU|work=ABC News|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-07/nsw-police-clear-john-barilaro-over-coronavirus-farm-trip/12222726|access-date=15 December 2021}}

In 2023, Barilaro faced criticism from the Auditor-General for his involvement in the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Program, which the auditor-general described as "lack[ing] integrity".{{Cite web |last1=Murphy |first1=Bridge |last2=Morris |first2=Kylie |date=1 Feb 2023 |title=Department of Regional NSW fast-tracked bushfire grant process 'lacked integrity' |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-02-02/nsw-auditor-general-report-fire-funding/101920500 |access-date=23 March 2023 |website=ABC news}}

= Eden-Monaro bid =

On 30 April 2020, Barilaro was considering stepping down from State politics to contest the federal seat of Eden-Monaro in its upcoming by-election, following Mike Kelly's immediate resignation from politics owing to personal and familial health issues,[https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-30/mike-kelly-eden-monaro-mp-resigns-triggering-by-election/12196936 Eden-Monaro MP Mike Kelly resigns, prompting by-election] ABC News 30 April 2020 but later withdrew his interest.[https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-04/john-barilaro-will-not-run-in-eden-monaro-by-election/12210944 Andrew Constance expected to announce run for Eden-Monaro seat] ABC News 4 May 2020 He attributed the decision to a lack of support from Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack, whom he accused of fearing him as a leadership rival.[https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/you-failed-as-a-leader-barilaro-s-message-to-mccormack-20200505-p54q0l.html You failed as a leader': Barilaro's message to McCormack] Sydney Morning Herald 5 May 2020 Barilaro then apologised for his actions.{{cite news|date=14 May 2020|title='Sorry for being a distraction': Barilaro apologises to Coalition MPs|work=SMH|url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/sorry-for-being-a-distraction-barilaro-apologises-to-coalition-mps-20200512-p54s8z.html}} Barilaro sent minister Andrew Constance an abusive text message while Constance was deliberating running for the by-election. Constance claims Barilaro's message convinced him "politics was stuffed", and he decided not to run.{{Cite news|date=2020-05-06|title='Bugger this for a joke': Constance reveals Barilaro slur played role in by-election U-turn|language=en-AU|work=ABC News|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-05-06/andrew-constance-on-why-john-barilaros-slur-made-him-drop-out/12220492|access-date=2021-12-15}}

= Later years of government =

In September 2020, Barilaro threatened to move the Nationals to the crossbench in opposition to the government's policy to protect koalas, while National ministers maintained their positions in cabinet. Premier Gladys Berejiklian rejected the offer and gave Nationals ministers an ultimatum to withdraw their threat or be fired. Barilaro subsequently backed down and kept his ministry,{{cite web |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-09-11/nsw-government-john-barilaro-backs-down-koala-crossbench-threat/12652108 |title=NSW koala policy stoush between John Barilaro, Gladys Berejiklian ends with Coalition agreement remaining |last=Cockburn |first=Paige |date=11 September 2020 |work=ABC News |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210823142219/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-09-11/nsw-government-john-barilaro-backs-down-koala-crossbench-threat/12652108 |archive-date=23 August 2021 |url-status=live |access-date=23 August 2021 }} though the government later shelved the koala protection bill, viewed as a ‘win’ for the Nationals at the time, though a ‘regression’ for koala protection.{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/nov/20/nsw-koala-war-flares-as-gladys-berejiklian-sacks-parliamentary-secretary-for-crossing-floor|title=NSW ‘koala war’ flares as Gladys Berejiklian sacks parliamentary secretary for crossing floor | New South Wales politics | The Guardian|website=amp.theguardian.com|accessdate=24 April 2024}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/koala-bill-block-by-dissident-liberal-prompts-nsw-nationals-meeting-20201119-p56g8i.html|title = NSW koala policy reversed, Gladys Berejiklian sacks Catherine Cusack}}

An effigy of Barilaro appeared at the 2021 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, depicting him as sitting inside a barrel; this was a reference to criticisms of "pork barrelling".{{Cite web|title=Excitement-Builds-For-Mardi-Gras|date=6 March 2021|url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/excitement-builds-for-mardi-gras-despite-its-move-away-from-oxford-street-20210306-p578dr.html))}}{{Cite web|title=Sydney-Mardi-Gras-at-SCG|website=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-06/sydney-mardi-gras-2021-at-scg-as-covid-19-forces-parade-change/13223816))}} Barilaro had spoken favourably of being given the nickname "Pork Barilaro", saying that what is typically described as pork barrelling is "actually an investment".{{Cite tweet |number=1299194396630372352 |user=JohnBarilaroMP |title=People call me 'Pork Barilaro', well I'll wear the title with a badge of honour. My focus is getting a fair share for our regional communities. #nswpol #auspol #bushsummit2020 |author=John Barilaro MP |date=28 August 2020 |access-date=3 May 2021 |language=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200828035810/https://twitter.com/JohnBarilaroMP/status/1299194396630372352 |archive-date=28 August 2020 |url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=8 February 2021|title=Pork barrelling is 'what elections are for': John Barilaro defends bushfire grants|url=http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/feb/08/nsw-deputy-premier-john-barilaro-defends-bushfire-grants-program-against-claims-of-pork-barrelling|access-date=3 May 2021|website=The Guardian|language=en}}

On 24 November 2021, Barilaro delivered his valedictory speech in NSW Parliament in which he closed with "one piece of advice: Be kind to each other. If we have learned anything over the past two years it is to be kind to each other".{{Cite web|last=Barilaro|first=John|title=John Barilaro's valedictory speech|url=https://www.nswnationals.org.au/john-barilaros-valedictory-speech/}} He officially resigned on 31 December 2021.{{cite web|url=https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/berejiklian-formally-resigns-but-holsworthy-byelection-still-uncertain-20211231-p59l57.html|title=Berejiklian formally resigns but Holsworthy byelection still uncertain|publisher=Sydney Morning Herald|date=1 January 2022|access-date=4 January 2022}}

= Friendlyjordies legal cases =

From the latter half of 2020, YouTube comedian and political commentator Jordan Shanks, known online as friendlyjordies, published a series of videos criticising Barilaro for the 2019–20 bushfire season and accusing him of corruption. He also appeared on stage in a Super Mario costume, at an event which Barilaro was attending.{{cite web | url=https://www.sydneycriminallawyers.com.au/blog/as-long-warned-terrorism-laws-are-being-turned-on-citizens/ | title=As Long Warned, Terrorism Laws Are Being Turned on Citizens | date=23 June 2021 }} Barilaro publicly expressed offence at Shanks' mocking depictions, where Shanks likens Barilaro to Mario from the Super Mario video games and comments that Barilaro is "powered by spaghetti",{{Cite web|title=NSW Deputy Premier threatens to sue YouTuber over allegedly racist, defamatory videos|url=https://www.9news.com.au/national/nsw-deputy-premier-john-barilaro-threatens-to-sue-friendlyjordies-youtube-personality/43eb688f-852b-4864-b787-1c98e1307f78|access-date=2 October 2021|website=www.9news.com.au|date=4 May 2021 }} citing Barilaro's consistent annual victories at a Queanbeyan spaghetti-eating contest.{{cite news |url= https://www.queanbeyanagechronicle.com.au/story/1926254/the-italian-job-barilaro-bowled-over-in-spaghetti-race/ |title= The Italian job: Barilaro bowled over in spaghetti race |work=The Queanbeyan Age Chronicle |date=22 November 2013 |accessdate=6 October 2021}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ihoirTYqf2c|title=bruz|accessdate=24 April 2024|via=www.youtube.com}} Barilaro accused the depictions of "racist undertones".{{Cite web|date=21 June 2020 |title=YouTuber Friendlyjordies lashed for 'racist' depiction of NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and deputy John Barilaro |url=https://www.news.com.au/technology/online/youtuber-friendlyjordies-lashed-for-racist-depiction-of-nsw-premier-gladys-berejiklian-and-deputy-john-barilaro/news-story/2c3d3a8e4637214cbf9069745626ba4e |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210617033344/https://www.news.com.au/technology/online/youtuber-friendlyjordies-lashed-for-racist-depiction-of-nsw-premier-gladys-berejiklian-and-deputy-john-barilaro/news-story/2c3d3a8e4637214cbf9069745626ba4e |archive-date=17 June 2021 |work=News.com.au }} In May 2021, Barilaro lodged a defamation claim in the Federal Court against Shanks, as well as Google for refusing to delete the videos.{{cite news |date=28 May 2021 |last=Bavas |first=Josh |title=NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro sues YouTube comedian Friendlyjordies and Google for defamation |newspaper=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-05-28/nsw-nationals-john-barilaro-sues-friendlyjordies-for-defamation/100174276 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20210621084713/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-05-28/nsw-nationals-john-barilaro-sues-friendlyjordies-for-defamation/100174276 |archive-date=21 June 2021 |access-date=5 June 2021 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/may/28/youtube-comedian-friendlyjordies-sued-for-defamation-by-nsw-deputy-premier-john-barilaro?amp/ |title=YouTube comedian Friendlyjordies sued for defamation by NSW deputy premier John Barilaro |last=McGowan |first=Michael |date=28 May 2021 |work=The Guardian |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210605161209/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/may/28/youtube-comedian-friendlyjordies-sued-for-defamation-by-nsw-deputy-premier-john-barilaro?amp/ |archive-date=5 June 2021 |url-status=live}} Barilaro cited this case as one of the reasons for his resignation from parliament.{{Cite news|last=Tsikas|first=AAP: Mick|date=3 October 2021|title=John Barilaro resigns as NSW Deputy Premier, will also leave Parliament|language=en-AU|work=ABC News|url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-10-04/nsw-deputy-premier-john-barilaro-resigns/100511638|access-date=3 October 2021}}

In June 2021, a friendlyjordies producer, Kristo Langker, was arrested by the Fixated Persons Unit of the Counter Terrorism and Special Tactics Command and charged with stalking Barilaro, prompted by Barilaro's complaints to the police;{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/jun/14/friendlyjordies-jordan-shanks-producer-charged-allegedly-stalking-john-barilaro?amp/ |title=Friendlyjordies producer charged with stalking John Barilaro |last=Knaus |first=Christopher |date=14 June 2021 |work=The Guardian |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210614011806/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/jun/14/friendlyjordies-jordan-shanks-producer-charged-allegedly-stalking-john-barilaro?amp/ |archive-date=14 June 2021 |url-status=live}}{{Cite web|date=17 June 2021|title=Friendlyjordies arrest by NSW police fixated persons unit questioned by former top prosecutor|url=http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/jun/18/friendlyjordies-arrest-by-nsw-police-fixated-persons-unit-questioned-by-former-top-prosecutor|access-date=15 August 2021|website=the Guardian|language=en}} he pleaded not guilty.{{Cite web |last=Mitchell |first=Georgina |date=24 June 2021 |title='He's innocent': Friendlyjordies producer Kristo Langker pleads not guilty to stalking John Barilaro|url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/he-s-innocent-friendlyjordies-producer-kristo-langker-pleads-not-guilty-to-stalking-john-barilaro-20210623-p583qy.html|access-date=24 June 2021 |work=The Sydney Morning Herald}} Police allege he followed Barilaro, repeatedly asking him why he was suing friendlyjordies. Video footage of the incident shows the producer attempting to return legal documents to Barilaro regarding the defamation suit.{{cite web |url=https://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/episodes/jordies/13404388 |title=friendlyjordies arrest |date=21 June 2021 |work=Media Watch |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210621174225/https://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/episodes/jordies/13404388 |archive-date=21 June 2021 |url-status=live}} The producer's lawyer, Mark Davis, states the video of the incident is not consistent with the police statement. Several notable figures have used social media to accuse Barilaro of lying to the police regarding the statement.{{cite web |url=https://thebrag.com/barilaro-controversy-friendlyjordies-jordan-shanks/ |title=People are rallying behind FriendlyJordies amid the Barilaro controversy |last=Lynch |first=Jessica |date=15 June 2021 |work=TheBrag |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210615050613/https://thebrag.com/barilaro-controversy-friendlyjordies-jordan-shanks/ |archive-date=15 June 2021 |url-status=live}} Former Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd criticised Barilaro for "asking counterterrorism police to round ... up" people he does not like, categorising the friendlyjordies incidents as typical investigative journalism that politicians expect to face.{{cite web |last1=Rudd |first1=Kevin |title=Why I donated to friendlyjordies' legal defence fund |url=https://kevinrudd.com/2021/06/18/why-i-donated-to-friendlyjordies-legal-defence-fund/ |date=18 June 2021 |work=KevinRudd.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210618235405/https://kevinrudd.com/2021/06/18/why-i-donated-to-friendlyjordies-legal-defence-fund/ |archive-date=18 June 2021 |url-status=live}} Others criticising the arrest include former Director of Public Prosecutions Nicholas Cowdery, politician Helen Dalton, journalist John Pilger, and Media Watch.{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/jun/18/friendlyjordies-arrest-by-nsw-police-fixated-persons-unit-questioned-by-former-top-prosecutor |title=Friendlyjordies arrest by NSW police fixated persons unit questioned by former top prosecutor |last=Knaus |first=Christopher |date=18 June 2021 |work=The Guardian |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210618021916/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/jun/18/friendlyjordies-arrest-by-nsw-police-fixated-persons-unit-questioned-by-former-top-prosecutor |archive-date=18 June 2021 |url-status=live}} In March 2022, police dropped all charges against Langker, and were ordered to pay his legal costs.{{cite web |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/mar/10/police-drop-all-charges-against-friendlyjordies-producer-accused-of-stalking-john-barilaro |title=Police drop all charges against Friendlyjordies producer accused of stalking John Barilaro |date=10 March 2022 |work=The Guardian |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220310042705/https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/mar/10/police-drop-all-charges-against-friendlyjordies-producer-accused-of-stalking-john-barilaro |archive-date=10 March 2022 |url-status=live}}

Barilaro settled his lawsuit against Shanks on 5 November 2021, with Shanks agreeing to apologise for the videos. Shanks was liable for $100,000 in legal costs in relation to an unsuccessful application to have the case heard by a jury, but Barilaro did not receive any money in the settlement.{{cite web |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-05/john-barilaro-settles-friendlyjordies-defamation-action/100596638 | title=Former deputy premier John Barilaro settles defamation suit against YouTube comedian | last=McKinnell | first=Jamie | date=5 November 2021 | work=Australian Broadcasting Corporation | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211108211433/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-11-05/john-barilaro-settles-friendlyjordies-defamation-action/1005966388 | archive-date= 8 November 2021 |url-status=live}} On 6 June 2022, Google was ordered to pay Barilaro $715,000.{{cite news|url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/john-barilaro-awarded-715-000-defamation-payout-as-google-friendlyjordies-referred-for-contempt/unztjqtto|title=John Barilaro awarded $715,000 defamation payout as Google, Friendlyjordies referred for contempt|publisher=SBS|date=6 June 2022}}

Post-political career (2021–present)

= Investment NSW appointment =

After leaving office, Barilaro was appointed to a trade commissioner position in New York by Investment NSW, a government agency within the NSW Department of Industry. Questions were raised about the propriety of this appointment and NSW Government inquiries were established.{{Cite web |date=23 June 2022 |title=Recruiter told to halt search for New York trade role a day before John Barilaro's resignation |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/jun/23/recruiter-told-to-halt-search-for-new-york-trade-role-a-day-before-john-barilaros-resignation |website=the Guardian |language=en}}{{Cite news |date=23 June 2022 |title=Changing rules for recruitment of new trade commissioners discussed days before Barilaro quit politics |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-06-23/john-barilaro-quit-politics-day-after-trade-job-email/101178272}} Senior public servant Jenny West was due to be given the role, before her verbal offer was rescinded by the state government.{{Cite web |date=28 June 2022 |title=Senior public servants thought John Barilaro's New York trade job would need cabinet approval |url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/jun/29/senior-public-servants-thought-john-barilaros-plum-new-york-trade-job-would-need-cabinet-approval |access-date= 27 July 2022|website=the Guardian |language=en}} On 30 June 2022, Barilaro announced he was withdrawing from his role as NSW Trade Commissioner to the Americas, stating that his position had become untenable, due to the intense media scrutiny that his appointment had received.{{Cite news |date=30 June 2022 |title=John Barilaro withdraws from $500,000 New York trade job |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-06-30/john-barilaro-withdraws-from-new-york-trade-job-abc-understands/101198844}} His former chief of staff Mark Connell, gave evidence to the parliamentary inquiry on the matter that Barilaro had said prior to leaving Parliament "I've just come from a meeting with Dom (Perrottet) and Stuart (Ayres) regarding trade and we’re going to bring back the Agent General in London as well as a bunch of other postings around the world. This is it; this is the job for when I get the fuck out of this place."{{cite web | url=https://7news.com.au/politics/im-off-to-new-york-former-john-barilaro-adviser-drops-bombshell-claim-over-trade-job-c-7582425 | title='I'm off to New York': Former Barliaro adviser drops bombshell claim over trade job | date=20 July 2022 }}

It was later revealed that, in both the first and second round of recruitment, Barilaro was not the preferred candidate, and won the job in the second round only after his rankings were adjusted following discussions with work references that were eventually revealed to be Gary Barnes, a former senior public servant who reported to Barilaro when Barilaro was a minister, Arthur Sinodinos, who served as the Australian Ambassador to the United States and former NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell,{{cite web | last=Maiden | first=Samantha | title=Barilaro’s mystery $500k job referee revealed | website=news | date=8 August 2022 | url=https://www.news.com.au/national/nsw-act/politics/barry-ofarrell-revealed-as-john-barilaros-mystery-third-referee-for-500000-new-york-trade-post/news-story/f304c1bd16de68b2839a024e84d27188 | access-date=24 April 2024}} after which chief executive of Investment NSW, Amy Brown, edited the selection panel report to elevate Barilaro to first ranked candidate in the final report published a week after he had signed his contract. The issue was referred to the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption. Government Minister Stuart Ayres resigned from his cabinet role over the matter on 3 August 2022.{{cite web | url=https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2022/aug/01/john-barilaro-was-ranked-second-after-new-york-trade-role-interviews-new-documents-reveal | title=John Barilaro was ranked second by New York trade role selection panel, new documents reveal | website=TheGuardian.com | date=August 2022 }}

On 23 July 2022, Barilaro was involved in a physical altercation with a television cameraman outside a bar in Manly. The incident was filmed, showing both Barilaro and the cameraman shoving each other. In the days after the attack Barilaro complained about the investigation, saying he was breaking his silence over "being treated like a criminal".{{cite web | url=https://www.2gb.com/watch-john-barilaro-caught-in-scuffle-with-cameraman/ | title=John Barilaro breaks silence over clash with cameraman | date=24 July 2022 }}{{cite news | url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-07-25/nsw-parliament-criticised-over-lag-in-john-barilaro-papers/101265710 | title=Barilaro says he's being 'harassed' as police look into bar scuffle with cameraman | newspaper=ABC News | date=24 July 2022 }} The NSW Police opened an investigation, and on 26 August, Barilaro was charged with assault and malicious damage over the attack.{{Cite web |title=John Barilaro charged with assault over late night scuffle |url=https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/john-barilaro-charged-with-assault-over-late-night-scuffle/bbc8swuec |access-date=2022-08-26 |website=SBS News |language=en}} He appeared at Manly Local Court on 12 October and pled not guilty.{{Cite news |date=2022-10-11 |title=John Barilaro pleads not guilty to assaulting cameraman in clash outside bar |language=en-AU |work=ABC News |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-10-12/john-barilaro-assault-court-cameraman-manly-seven/101525910 |access-date=2022-10-12}} The charges have since been dismissed on the grounds of Barilaro's poor mental health state.{{Cite web |last=Noyes |first=Jenny |date=2023-02-03 |title=John Barilaro assault charges dismissed on mental health grounds |url=https://www.theage.com.au/politics/nsw/john-barilaro-seeks-assault-charges-dismissed-on-mental-health-grounds-20230203-p5chow.html |access-date=2023-02-05 |website=The Age |language=en}}

On Monday, 8 August, Barilaro appeared in front of a NSW parliamentary inquiry.{{cite web |last1=Riga |first1=Jessica |title='I'm the victim': John Barilaro faced a parliamentary inquiry into his New York trade job. Here are the key moments |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-08/key-moments-from-john-barilaro-inquiry-into-trade-job/101311732 |website=ABC News |access-date=12 August 2022 |language=en-AU |date=8 August 2022}} On the second day of questioning, Barilaro ceased to cooperate, citing mental health reasons.{{cite web |last1=Cockburn |first1=Paige |title=John Barilaro pulls out of inquiry into US trade job due to mental health |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-12/john-barilaro-pulls-out-of-parliamentary-inquiry/101326300 |website=ABC News |access-date=12 August 2022 |language=en-AU |date=11 August 2022}} A separate inquiry chaired by former NSW public service commissioner Graeme Head based on the mandate by the NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet found that the hiring decision was not done at 'arm's length'. In response, Perrottet stated that the recruitment process was 'flawed' and that he is seeking legal advice on whether the matter should be referred to NSW ICAC.{{cite web |last1=Cockburn |first1=Paige |title='Highly irregular': Report into Barilaro's US trade job released as Perrottet tightens rules |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-16/report-released-on-john-barilaro-trade-job/101337062 |website=ABC News |access-date=17 August 2022 |language=en-AU |date=16 August 2022}} The NSW parliamentary inquiry published its interim report on 6 February 2023, concurring with the Head inquiry that the recruitment decision were not made at 'arm's length' and that the appointment had all the hallmarks of 'jobs for the boys' scheme.{{cite web |last1=Calderwood |first1=Kathleen |title='Job for the boys': Inquiry delivers scathing report into Barilaro's New York trade role |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-02-06/john-barilaro-new-york-job-inquiry-findings-released/101934842 |website=ABC News |access-date=14 February 2023 |language=en-AU |date=5 February 2023}}

=Leaked audio recordings=

On 10 March 2023, Friendlyjordies released a video on YouTube, wherein he played leaked audio recordings taken of Barilaro talking with colleagues prior to the 2021 Upper Hunter state by-election, where he admitted to pork barrelling election commitments amounting to over AU$100 million in an effort to win the election.{{cite video|url=https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=JRAU4Z9Meb0|title=you can have it all|author=friendlyjordies|via=YouTube|date=10 March 2023|accessdate=20 March 2023}} Shanks also published a similar video featuring an extended version of the same conversation, in which Barilaro admitted he was purposefully "making foolish election commitments" to win the seat.{{cite video|url=https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=XrJeumZROdU|title="I'm Making Foolish Election Commitments"|author=friendlyjordies|via=YouTube|date=17 March 2023|accessdate=20 March 2023}}

The recordings would not be reported on by any mainstream media outlet, with the exception of the small regional radio station, 2NM.{{cite web|url=https://www.2nm.com.au/news/local-news/111796-busted-on-tape-organising-pork-barrelling-the-upper-hunter|title=Busted on tape organising pork barrelling the Upper Hunter|publisher=2NM|date=13 March 2023|accessdate=20 March 2023}} Media Watch host Paul Barry opined that no outlets had covered the story due to the state laws of New South Wales which make it illegal to publish a recording of a private conversation without the person's consent.{{cite web|url=https://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/episodes/nsw/102121542|title=The Barilaro tapes|work=Media Watch|publisher=Australian Broadcasting Corporation|date=20 March 2023|accessdate=20 March 2023}}

Personal life

In 2019, Barilaro voiced his support for the decriminalisation of abortion, stating that 30 years earlier he had a girlfriend who had an abortion after she got pregnant while together with Barilaro.{{cite web |url=https://www.2gb.com/it-still-sits-with-me-today-deputy-premier-reveals-his-struggle-with-abortion/ |title=‘It still sits with me today’: Deputy Premier reveals his struggle with abortion |date=7 August 2019 |work=2GB |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211130202539/https://www.2gb.com/it-still-sits-with-me-today-deputy-premier-reveals-his-struggle-with-abortion/ |archive-date=30 November 2021 |url-status=live}} Barilaro's father, Domenico, died in early 2020.{{cite web |last1=Weaver |first1=Michael |title=Barilaro will return to work on Wednesday amid NSW leadership chaos |url=https://aboutregional.com.au/barilaro-will-return-to-work-on-wednesday-amid-nsw-leadership-chaos/ |website=About Regional |access-date=17 November 2020}} Barilaro's aunt, Maria Inzillo, and her husband, Damiani Nesci, died from COVID-19 in December 2020.{{cite web |last1=Mitchell |first1=Georgina |title=Barilaro reveals he lost two relatives to COVID-19 in Italy in December |url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/nsw/barilaro-reveals-he-lost-two-relatives-to-covid-19-in-italy-in-december-20210111-p56tba.html |website=The Sydney Morning Herald |date=11 January 2021 |publisher=Fairfax Media |access-date=13 January 2021}}

In October 2021, Barilaro announced his separation from his wife of 26 years, Deanna. They have three daughters together.{{cite web |url=https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/annette-sharp-john-barilaro-and-wife-deanna-have-separated/news-story/205af78d88f5395aedeaaa7275053da0 |title=Barilaro quietly splits from wife Deanna |last= |first= |date= |work=The Daily Telegraph |url-access=subscription}}

In December 2021, it was revealed Barilaro was in a relationship with his former long-time media adviser and described "uber-loyalist" Jennifer Lugsdin.{{Cite web|last1=Hutchinson|first1=Samantha

|first2=Stephen |last2=Brook |date=4 October 2021|title=RIP Angus the pooch who brought paw and order to Sydney's elite|url=https://www.smh.com.au/national/rip-angus-the-pooch-who-brought-paw-and-order-to-sydney-s-elite-20211004-p58x4x.html|access-date=15 December 2021|website=The Sydney Morning Herald|language=en}}{{Cite news|url=https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/entertainment/sydney-confidential/holidays-looking-like-a-turkey-for-barnaby-joyce/news-story/ccc70728efb7aa8bc2af60c2c6061fc1?amp|title=Barilaro looks set for cosy Christmas with new love|newspaper=Daily Telegraph|date=10 December 2021|last1=Sharp|first1=Annette}}

References

External links

[http://www.nswnationals.org.au/index.php/candidate-portal/32-john-barilaro National Party – John Barilaro, Member for Monaro] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120130050130/http://www.nswnationals.org.au/index.php/candidate-portal/32-john-barilaro |date=30 January 2012 }}
[http://www.qcc.nsw.gov.au/external/AboutCouncil/ElectedMembers/Profiles/johnbarilaro Queanbeyan City Council – Cr John Barilaro]

{{s-ttl|title=Minister for Small Business|years=2014{{endash}}2019}}

{{s-aft|after=Damien Tudehope |as=Minister for Finance and Small Business}}

{{s-bef|before=Katrina Hodgkinson |as=Assistant Minister for Tourism and Major Events}}

{{s-aft|after=Stuart Ayres|as=Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events}}

{{s-vac|last=Verity Firth|as=Minister for Education and Training}}

{{s-ttl|title=Minister for Skills|years=2015{{endash}}2019}}

{{s-aft|after=Geoff Lee |as=Minister for Skills and Tertiary Education }}

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{{s-ttl|title=Minister for Regional Development /
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{{s-aft|after=himself |as=Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade }}

{{s-ttl|title=Deputy Premier of New South Wales |years=2016{{endash}}2021}}

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{{s-ttl|rows=2|title=Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade |years=2019{{endash}}2021 }}

{{s-aft|after=Paul Toole |as=Minister for Regional New South Wales }}

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Category:1971 births

Category:Members of the New South Wales Legislative Assembly

Category:National Party of Australia members of the Parliament of New South Wales

Category:Living people

Category:Place of birth missing (living people)

Category:Australian politicians of Italian descent

Category:21st-century Australian politicians

Category:Deputy premiers of New South Wales