The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) has officially opened, marking an important milestone in enhancing integrity and accountability in the Commonwealth public sector.
The NACC is the country’s first Agency with the jurisdiction to investigate serious or systemic corruption involving officials in the Federal Public Service.
In his first public address as inaugural Commissioner, Paul Brereton spoke of the significance of the moment.
“The people of the Commonwealth are no longer prepared to tolerate practices which might once have been the subject of, if not acceptance, at least acquiescence,” Mr Brereton (pictured) said.
“They have clearly expressed a desire for an anti-corruption Agency.”
He said the Commission was obviously aware of a number of matters which had been mentioned in the media and elsewhere as potential subjects for investigation.
“We will assess all the matters of which we are aware, to decide whether they should be investigated,” Mr Brereton said.
He outlined the mission and mandate for the Commission, and noted the important role of education in increasing awareness and prevention of corruption, as well as public reports and inquiries.
“It is through detection, investigation and reporting that corrupt conduct is exposed, and through the risk of such exposure that more corrupt conduct is deterred,” the Commissioner said.
He also highlighted the role of senior leaders in modelling behaviour and promoting a safe environment where staff could speak up.
“By enhancing a culture of transparency and integrity, we will harden the Commonwealth public sector against corruption and support the integrity reform agenda,” the Commissioner said.
Anyone can submit a corruption report to the NACC or provide other information about a corruption issue.
To find out more about the National Anti-Corruption Commission, an overview of it can be accessed on its website at this PS News link.
