Former Maribyrnong Mayor Sued by ANZ Bank

Maribyrnong councillor Pradeep Tiwari has been sued by ANZ Bank for an alleged loan default. ANZ filed a Supreme Court lawsuit against Tiwari, claiming he owes $379,463 from a business loan taken out in 2020. The bank is seeking possession of Tiwari’s warehouse in Hoppers Crossing, which was offered as security for the initial $474,035 loan.

Allegations and Responses

ANZ alleged Tiwari failed to repay $26,765 in arrears by November, leading to a demand for repayment by January 5, or face mortgage enforcement.

Tiwari stated that the matter was a private issue between him and ANZ that has been “sorted.”

He claimed a breakdown in communication due to outdated contact details led to the temporary repayment issue, and that he has since brought repayments back on track. Tiwari also stated that ANZ confirmed in writing they are not pursuing legal action.

However, the Supreme Court confirmed that no notice of discontinuance had been filed in the lawsuit against Tiwari as of Friday night. ANZ declined to comment on individual customer cases. Tiwari maintains his overdue repayments totaled approximately $10,000 and that his personal financial matters do not impact his council duties.

Potential Eligibility and Previous Legal Issues

The Local Government Act specifies that a person is unqualified to serve as a councillor if they are an undischarged bankrupt or have property under bankruptcy laws. The sale of Tiwari's warehouse, purchased for $395,000 in 2004, would likely cover the alleged debt if the Supreme Court grants ANZ possession.

Tiwari previously faced legal issues in 2025 while serving as mayor. A warrant was briefly issued for his arrest after he failed to attend a court hearing for a dangerous driving charge, which was later dropped. He was fined $450 without conviction for driving with an unrestrained passenger in October 2025. Tiwari stated he was unaware of the court date and charges, and that his child had slipped out of the seat belt.