Prime Minister Scott Morrison‘s nephew has been accused of ripping off Sydney homeowners who hired him to renovate their properties, with alleged victims claiming the bloke used a holiday picture with Morrison to vouch for his credentials.
Last night’s A Current Affair exposé claimed south Sydney builder Mitchell Cole has pledged to complete pool repairs, balcony extensions and a swathe of other handiwork, but has habitually let his customers down.
Fay Voyiatsis, who told ACA she dropped more than $50,000 on work which Cole never completed, says Morrison should knock his nephew into place.
“I don’t think he’s personally responsible for his nephew, but as our prime minister, now that he’s aware of this, and the fact that it’s touched so close to home… I think that it would be the right thing for him to do to take it upon himself to make sure things are put right.”
Is there any suggestion Morrison himself is personally culpable for these allegations? Absolutely not, but Cole’s allegedly jilted clients are convinced the bloke shouldn’t have flashed holiday happy snaps with the PM before turning around with their cash.
ACA states Morrison has even sent a letter to alleged victim James McCall, confirming their relationship (through marriage, if you must know) and urging the fella to report Cole to the police with any concerns.
“Mitchell, like anyone else, should be held fully accountable for any of his actions,” the PM reportedly said.
A cursory glance at the Department of Fair Trade NSW database reveals no “Mitchell Cole” currently holds a valid license as a tradesperson or a contractor, and the company Nexo Build Pty Ltd – as advertised on his workshirt during the programme – is not currently listed on the Australian Business Register.
As Coles’ alleged victims seek compensation, we can all take a minute to marvel at the fact a classic “dodgy tradie” story finally includes our most prominent elected official.
You can watch the full segment here.
