NSW MP Gareth Ward has appeared in a Sydney court after voters in Kiama returned him to the parliament he was suspended from when criminally charged.
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Ward, 42, an ex-Liberal turned independent, has pleaded not guilty to sexual intercourse without consent, three counts of indecent assault and one of common assault.
He appeared in Sydney's Downing Centre District Court on Monday with two barristers arguing on his behalf against motions from the prosecution to move the location of his approaching trial.
Another application from Ward's side sought to separate charges on the indictment, based on the individuals involved, who cannot be identified, potentially requiring a second trial.
"If I did separate the trials the Crown would have to make a decision about which one it wants to run first," Judge John Pickering said on Monday.
He indicated it could be difficult to hold a trial in the Nowra District Court, depending on how long it is expected to last, however reserved his decision until April 13.
Ward's bail continues.
He was returned by voters in Kiama at the March 25 NSW election, however Premier Chris Minns pledged to refer him to parliament's privileges committee on Sunday.
He was suspended from parliament in the previous term and was also expelled from the Liberal party.
Suspended members are excluded from parliamentary precincts and prohibited from participating in the house or committees.
Australian Associated Press
