The former chief executive of Sydney Markets, Bradley Latham, has pleaded not guilty to three criminal charges alleging he dishonestly obtained more than $1 million from the prominent fresh food organisation.
Court Appearance and Bail Conditions
The 63-year-old appeared at Burwood Local Court on Thursday, where he formally entered his not guilty plea to all counts. The charges relate to his time overseeing the operations of Paddy's fresh food markets at both Flemington and Haymarket.
Magistrate granted Latham conditional bail, requiring a $50,000 deposit. His bail conditions explicitly prohibit him from coming within 100 metres of any premises owned by Sydney Markets and order the surrender of his passport.
However, the court allowed an exception for international travel. Latham is permitted to retrieve his passport and leave Australia between December 27 and January 17 to attend a job interview in the Middle East.
Alleged Expenses and Asset Freeze
According to reports, the Federal Court has already frozen $1.4 million of Latham's assets earlier this year. Sydney Markets alleges these funds were acquired through dishonest expense claims and is pursuing civil action to recover the money.
The alleged improper expenses cited in the case include:
- $17,000 spent on flowers for his daughter's wedding.
- $34,000 for new security doors, awnings, and flooring at his private residence.
Resignation and Fallout
Latham stepped down from his role in November 2024 after 19 years at the helm. At the time of his resignation, Chairman Peter McBride issued a statement praising Latham for leading the organisation "through significant growth and change" and for a focus on innovation that positioned Sydney Markets as an industry leader.
Latham himself said his tenure as CEO had "been an incredible journey" and expressed deep pride in the team's accomplishments.
However, the company's subsequent internal investigation uncovered financial "irregularities," as noted in its 2025 annual report. This prompted Sydney Markets to launch legal proceedings and report the former CEO to police.
A spokesperson for Sydney Markets told media the organisation takes the matter "incredibly seriously" and remains committed to full cooperation with authorities as the legal process continues.
Bradley Latham is scheduled to return to court on January 22 for further proceedings.
