Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald has welcomed the resignation of Gareth Ward as a member of the NSW Parliament by saying the decision will clear the way for a by-election for the seat of Kiama.

“This marks an important step forward for our community,” Cr McDonald said.

“Today’s resignation restores the path to local representation and ensures the people of Kiama will once again have a voice in the NSW Parliament.”

Ward was found guilty on 25 July of sexual intercourse without consent and three counts of indecent assault.

He informed the NSW Government that he would be resigning on Friday morning before Parliament was able to vote on a motion to expel him.

The Government successfully protested to the Court of Appeal on Thursday that the expulsion process did not interfere with judicial proceedings or constitutional principles.

Cr McDonald said his thoughts were with the victims who reported Ward to the police and testified against him during the nine-week trial in the NSW District Court.

“My thoughts remain with the victims, whose resilience and courage have been extraordinary,” he said.

“This has been a distressing period for many in our community. We now look forward to a fresh chapter.”

Cr McDonald said Kiama Council would continue to work with all levels of government to ensure a smooth transition and ongoing advocacy on behalf of the region.