Property developer Ron Medich wanted his former business associate Michael McGurk killed because he was making him "the laughing stock of the eastern suburbs," a jury has heard.
According to the Crown's star witness, Lucky Gattellari, in late 2008 Mr Medich was '"distraught and raving" about the problems McGurk was causing.
The court has heard that the pair were embroiled in a string of legal battles, which was costing Mr Medich a fortune.
"I can't believe I've got this f--- in my life…he's ruining my reputation," Mr Medich told him.
Gattellari told the jury that when Mr Medich asked him to find someone to kill him, he had replied: "Are you sure you know what you are saying? There is no going back."
He said Mr Medich replied: "I am sure. I want it done."
Gattellari, who has pleaded guilty to his role in the murder, said that he thought the matter would blow over but a few days later Mr Medich asked if he had found anyone yet. "He's made a fool of me, the laughing stock of the eastern suburbs," Gattellari said Mr Medich had complained to him. "
Gattellari told the jury Mr Medich was complaining that "the guy's taken him for f------g millions" and that Mr Medich had to "put an end to it."
When Mr Medich was informed that someone had been found to do the murder and that the price would be $300,000 plus expenses, Mr Medich was astonished at the amount.
"F---, that's a lot of money," he complained, before agreeing to the the terms, saying: "I want it done."
Mr Medich has pleaded not guilty to the murder of McGurk, who was shot in the back of his head outside his Cremorne house on 3 September 2009.
The trial continues.