Embattled MP Gareth Ward has stepped back from his role as Kiama MP in the wake of sexual-violence related allegations.
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Mr Ward had previously stepped down as Minister for Families following reports of a police investigation into the allegations.
He denies any wrongdoing.
While ministerial duties had been handed over, his role in the Kiama area was unclear.
When asked, a spokesman for the MP said. "Mr Ward is currently on leave. His electorate office continues to function as normal."
In recent weeks, Mr Ward has avoided public appearances.
While he was part of the announcement in September last year about the decision to build a new Shellharbour Hospital, he was nowhere to be seen at last week's press conference unveiling the location.
Also a $750-a-head fundraising dinner to mark 10 years in parliament was cancelled in the wake of the investigation being made public.
The dinner was to have included NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian as the guest of honour.
There are also doubts whether Mr Ward will be present at the opening of the Albion Park Rail bypass in the coming months, a project he fought for over several years.
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Glen Humphries
I'm an award-winning senior journalist with the Illawarra Mercury and have well over two decades' worth of experience in newspapers. I cover the three local councils in the Illawarra for the Mercury, state and federal politics, as well as writing for the TV guide. If I'm not writing, I'm reading.
I'm an award-winning senior journalist with the Illawarra Mercury and have well over two decades' worth of experience in newspapers. I cover the three local councils in the Illawarra for the Mercury, state and federal politics, as well as writing for the TV guide. If I'm not writing, I'm reading.
