The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has announced it is planning to examine the activities of procurement conducted throughout the State’s public sector.
In a statement ICAC said procurement was “particularly vulnerable to corruption because of the high volume and value of transactions, complexity of processes, and the interaction between public officers and suppliers”.
“Each year, the South Australian Government spends over $11 billion on goods, services and construction works,” ICAC said.
“Procurement processes can be corrupted by public officers who misuse their position to improperly benefit themselves or a particular supplier.
“Corrupt suppliers might attempt to groom, threaten or induce a public officer to manipulate a procurement process to their advantage.”
Commissioner of ICAC, Ann Vanstone said the Commission decided to examine public sector procurement because it could be manipulated for financial or personal gain.
“Public authorities are at risk of being overcharged or receiving substandard goods and services,” Commissioner Vanstone said.
“Suppliers will likely be deterred from tendering for opportunities where they think procurement processes or personnel lack integrity.”
She said the Commission was keen to hear from the views and experiences of people involved in public sector procurement, including Public Officers, State Government suppliers and “other interested persons or businesses”.
Commissioner Vanstone invited parties to participate in the Commission’s online survey.
ICAC’s survey can be accessed on its website at this PS News link.
