NSW arts minister confirms misconduct probe into Powerhouse Museum's top executives
Arts Minister John Graham told a budget estimates hearing that two senior Powerhouse Museum officials are subject to a misconduct investigation that began last year.
At a recent budget estimates hearing, Arts Minister John Graham disclosed that a misconduct investigation into Powerhouse Museum’s senior leadership has been underway since at least last year. He said a fact-finding assessment was commissioned in March 2025, followed by a referral to the Independent Commission Against Corruption and a formal probe approved in December 2025. The inquiry prompted the suspension of CEO Lisa Havilah and the temporary removal of COO Mark Wilsdon, with architect Abbie Galvin and Treasury executive Cassandra Wilkinson appointed as interim CEO and COO.
While the government has not released details of the accusations, Graham described the process as serious and expressed confidence in the museum’s board. Questions were raised about a possible conflict involving board president David Borger and contractor Mark Hassell, but officials said they were unaware of any related tour. Despite the upheaval, the $915 million project remains on budget and is slated to open on November 7.
Why it matters
The probe could affect the leadership and reputation of a major new cultural institution ahead of its opening.
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