The former chief executive of Sydney Markets, Bradley Latham, has pleaded not guilty to charges of dishonestly obtaining financial advantages totalling over $1 million. The 63-year-old appeared at Burwood Local Court on Thursday facing three counts related to his tenure overseeing Paddy's fresh food markets in Flemington and Haymarket.
Latham was granted conditional bail with a $50,000 deposit. Conditions include staying at least 100 metres from any Sydney Markets premises and surrendering his passport, though he may retrieve it to travel to the Middle East for a job interview between December 27 and January 17.
The Federal Court earlier froze $1.4 million of Latham's assets, which Sydney Markets alleges were obtained through dishonest expenses. The company is pursuing civil action to recover the funds, which reportedly include $17,000 on flowers for his daughter's wedding and $34,000 on home improvements.
Latham resigned in November 2024 after 19 years as CEO. Chairman Peter McBride praised his leadership, stating he “led the organisation through significant growth and change.” Sydney Markets launched legal proceedings after investigating financial irregularities, as noted in its 2025 annual report, and reported the matter to NSW Police.
In a statement, Sydney Markets confirmed it commenced Federal Court proceedings against Latham in May 2025 and is cooperating with police. The company emphasised its commitment to accountability but refrained from further comment to avoid compromising investigations.
