ACT Deputy Chief Minister Yvette Berry Resigns After Corruption Report

ACT Deputy Chief Minister Yvette Berry resigned from the cabinet on Thursday, July 23, 2026, following a report from the ACT Integrity Commission. The investigation, known as Operation Kingfisher, found that Berry's former chief of staff, Josh Ceramidas, and former Education head Katy Haire engaged in corrupt conduct by dishonestly prioritizing the strategic interests of the CFMEU during the awarding of a contract for Campbell Primary School.

The resignation followed intense pressure from Opposition Leader Mark Parton, Greens leader Jo Clay, and independents Thomas Emerson and Fiona Carrick, who argued Berry was accountable for her staff's actions under the Ministerial Code of Conduct. Berry also faced scrutiny over a missing needs analysis report for aquatic facilities in Woden. While the commission cleared Berry of personal wrongdoing, she stated she resigned to avoid a parliamentary public circus.

Chief Minister Andrew Barr accepted the resignation and issued a public apology, stating that ministers must take responsibility for their staff and that Berry had been badly let down by her advisors. Berry will remain in parliament as a backbencher for her Ginninderra seat. Rachel Stephen-Smith is identified as the likely successor for the deputy role. Barr further noted that no political position is permanent and that periods of transition are necessary.