The NSW Premier has slammed the decision to allow the Obeid family to keep $30 million in proceeds of crime.

The Sydney Morning Herald has reported that the NSW Crime Commission could have sought to confiscate the ill-gotten gains, but it was instead decided the Tax Office would pursue the tax that should have been paid on the money.

Former Labor ministers Ian Macdonald and Eddie Obeid, as well as Obeid’s son Moses were found guilty in July over a rigged exploration tender linked to a Central West property that delivered $30 million to the Obeid family.

Macdonald was handed a five year and three months non-parole period, while Eddie Obeid will be jailed for a minimum of three years and ten months. His son received a minimum three-year sentence.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet told Ben Fordham he was not aware of the decision.

“We’ll take action because it’s completely unacceptable and outrageous.

“The ATO doesn’t believe that there’ll be any funds left over, I certainly want to check that.”

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Labor Leader Chris Minns told Ben the decision needs to be reviewed urgently.

“It doesn’t pass the sniff test.”

The NSW Crime Commission has now agreed to reopen its investigation into possible confiscation of assets.

In a statement, Commissioner Michael Barnes said:

“There is no time limitation on the commencement of [Criminal Asset Recovery Act] proceedings.

“In view of developments since this matter was investigated, it will now be reviewed to ascertain whether the financial affairs of the Obeids has become any more transparent or whether ill-gotten gains can be traced to the hands of relatives or associates.”

Image: The Sydney Morning Herald/ Daniel Munoz