Matthew Guy (inset) and former chief of staff Mitch Catlin.Credit:The Age
The Age has also seen correspondence confirming the claim has been lodged and a probe is underway. But the precise claims made by Catlin are not clear,and the former marketing executive did not respond toThe Age’s request for comment.
However,multiple sources said Catlin is seeking compensation for a non-physical work-related injury,which is alleged to have occurred while he was Guy’s chief of staff.
Catlin began working for Guy in September 2021 after the former opposition leader toppled Michael O’Brien in a leadership coup.
He resigned one year later afterThe Age revealedCatlin requested a Liberal Party donor make more than $100,000 in payments to his private marketing business,in addition to his taxpayer-funded salary.
Mitch Catlin,pictured in the Lexus marquee on Derby Day,2018.Credit:AFR
Under the plan,the donor would have paid an extra $8333 a month to Catlin’s private marketing company,Catchy Media Marketing and Management,for services as a contractor described as “supporting business interests”.
In addition,Catlin requested the fee increase to $20,833 a month for four months after the state election if the Coalition was unsuccessful in November,meaning he would continue to be paid until March 2023.