December 13, 2018
Pressure from Member for Wide Bay Llew O’Brien – who threatened to cross the floor – and crossbench MPs has paid off with the announcement on Thursday that a new Federal anti-corruption commission will be established.
The new Commonwealth Integrity Commission (CIC) will aim to detect and prevent official corruption by Commonwealth employees.
It will have two divisions: A law enforcement integrity division and a public sector integrity division.
A new role, the Commonwealth Integrity Commissioner, will oversee both divisions.
A Law Enforcement Integrity Commissioner and a Public Sector Integrity Commissioner will be appointed to head each arm.
The Law Council welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement of the CIC,
President Morry Bailes said the CIC model and its functions looked at first glance to be a truly positive step.
“This is a huge leap for Australian public accountability and transparency and for that the government needs to be applauded,” Mr Bailes said.
“The CIC would apply more stringent accountability measures to not only all government bodies, departments and staff, but also Members of Parliament and their staff.”
Mr Bailes said the Law Council has supported the establishment of a national integrity commission for some time.
“Official corruption is a serious issue here and around the world, undermining democratic processes, jeopardising economic development and threatening stability,” Mr Bailes said.
“We will be examining the consultation paper thoroughly, as it is vital we strike a balance between transparency and ensuring the rights and reputations of individuals.
“What we must not have are unintended consequences which could have devastating outcomes for those affected.
“People can have their lives destroyed if we don’t get it right.
“It is also essential the coercive powers exercised by the CIC through private chamber hearings are not abused, and that there are rights enshrined to protect legal professional privilege.”
