Troy Graham Stolz is an Australian whistleblower and gambling reform advocate whose courage in exposing systemic non-compliance within ClubsNSW has made him a pivotal figure in the fight for transparency in Australia's gaming industry. Currently serving as a councillor for the Upper Hunter Shire Council since the 2024 New South Wales local government elections, Troy continues his commitment to public service and reform.
Until 2019, Troy served as the head of ClubsNSW's anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism unit. In this role, he was responsible for ensuring compliance with critical financial regulations designed to prevent criminal activity. What he discovered during his tenure would ultimately lead him to make one of the most difficult decisions of his life.
Troy leaked an internal report revealing that 95% of registered clubs in New South Wales were non-compliant with anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism laws. This explosive revelation exposed systemic failures within one of Australia's most powerful lobby groups and sparked nationwide calls for reform.
Following his whistleblowing, Troy faced intense legal pressure from his former employer. ClubsNSW sued him, arguing that he owed a duty of confidence and had used confidential documents in his consulting work after leaving the organization. The lawsuit was widely criticized in the press, with casino mogul James Packer calling it "ruthless [and] unethical."
Troy's commitment to gambling reform led him to enter the political arena. In the 2023 New South Wales state election, he ran as an independent candidate in Kogarah, directly opposing Labor leader Chris Minns. Campaigning on a platform of cashless gaming reform, Troy called for the transition to cashless pokies by 2028, garnering 2,186 votes (4.3%) and placing fourth.
In 2024, Troy successfully ran for councillor in the Upper Hunter Shire, being elected in fourth place with 893 votes (10.9%). This position allows him to continue his advocacy for transparency and accountability at the local government level.
Troy's advocacy extends beyond gambling reform. In November 2023, he joined other whistleblowers in an open letter condemning the prosecution of Australian Army whistleblower David McBride, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to protecting those who speak truth to power.
While fighting for institutional reform, Troy is simultaneously battling stage 4 bone cancer. This personal challenge has not diminished his resolve but rather strengthened his determination to create lasting change in his lifetime. His ability to maintain his advocacy work while facing such adversity is a testament to his extraordinary character and commitment to justice.
Troy Stolz's story is one of exceptional moral courage in the face of powerful opposition. From exposing systemic non-compliance at ClubsNSW to enduring legal persecution and personal health battles, he has never wavered in his commitment to transparency and reform. His journey from corporate whistleblower to elected councillor demonstrates that speaking truth to power, while costly, can lead to meaningful change.
Today, Troy continues to be a leading voice in gambling reform and anti-corruption advocacy. Through his council work, public speaking, and ongoing activism, he inspires others to stand up for what's right, regardless of the personal cost. His legacy is not just in the reforms he's sparked, but in the example he sets for future generations of Australians committed to integrity and justice.