[Australia] Anti-Domestic Violence spokesperson charged with Domestic Violence against her partner

A Sydney socialite who was once lauded for her bravery in advocating against domestic violence is now a charge of assaulting her former partner.

Janelle “Nellie” Tilley, 58, is accused of physically abusing Paris Saint, 34, during their four-year relationship, which began in 2019 when the pair met in Greece.

Police allege that Ms Tilley, an interior designer, threatened to “get someone to break his legs” if Mr Saint reported the abuse, the Daily Telegraph reports.

Mr Saint, who lived with Tilley in her Bellevue Hill home, came forward to police in March after their tumultuous relationship ended.

He claimed he had been a victim of ongoing domestic violence, prompting Tilley’s charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

She has pleaded not guilty, with a hearing set for March next year.

In the meantime, an interim apprehended violence order prevents her from assaulting, stalking, or harassing Mr Saint.

The police facts sheet alleges that Tilley physically assaulted Mr Saint in 2023, accusing him of infidelity and scratching his neck until blood was visible.

In another incident, she allegedly spat on him during an argument in the car after a Valentine’s Day dinner.

Tilley previously made headlines in 2018 when she spoke out about her abusive relationship with millionaire pub baron Phillip De Angelis, who was convicted of assaulting her.

Her testimony led to widespread praise, including from then NSW Attorney-General Mark Speakman, who commended her for holding her assailant accountable.