Sam Groth denies claim he misused taxpayer-funded vehicle during AO

Groth issued a statement this morning responding to an article that claims he used Liberal MP Georgie Crozier’s chauffeur-driven vehicle to transport himself and his wife from their home in Rye to the tennis tournament in Melbourne’s centre in January 2024.

In the statement, the former tennis pro said he thought it was “important to clarify a few things”, denying he used the vehicle inappropriately and claiming he attended the 2024 Australian Open “in both an official capacity and a personal one”.

“The public rightly have an expectation that politicians behave appropriately at all times. I share that belief,” he said,

“In my role as a Shadow Minister, I have attended many sporting events in the past few years.”

“I was at the event to meet various stakeholders and attend meetings before being part of a fundraising initiative.”

Groth denied allegations he was intoxicated at the tennis event.

“Everything was and is above board. It has all been officially disclosed. There is nothing to hide,” he said.

“This job is time consuming and keeps me away from my wife and twin boys.

“When I get a chance for my wife and family to join me, I jump at the chance and pay for it myself.

Opposition Leader Brad Battin today said he planned to have an internal discussion with Groth regarding the claims, but does not believe he should resign.

“I expect all members of parliament to follow the rules and behave appropriately, whether it’s at work or not at work, it’s a simple expectation I have,” Battin said.

“Sam Groth has been working very hard in his role and we all know that. We’ve seen him out and about whether it’s in parliament or going out to events ensuring he’s engaging with his community.

“I’m confident that Sam’s followed the rules and I’ve seen his declarations when he comes into towns that were recently reported for the events that he stays at.”