The New South Wales Independent Commission against Corruption (ICAC), under the banner of Operation Rosny, has spent the last three weeks examining the operations of Catholic Schools NSW. The inquiry is currently focused on payments made by the organization to various key figures and companies associated with the Refo group.

These hearings have surfaced amidst a broader political debate regarding the nature of 'elites' in Australia. While prominent conservative figures such as Liberal leader Angus Taylor and Nationals leader Matt Canavan have frequently criticized inner-city, university, and public service elites, the current ICAC proceedings suggest the existence of influential, exclusive networks within the conservative Catholic ecosystem. The investigation aims to clarify the nature of these financial transactions and determine whether they constitute improper influence or conflicts of interest. As the hearings continue, the focus remains on the transparency of these payments and the extent to which these private networks intersect with public policy and political interests.