The Integrity Commission has tabled its Annual Report in Parliament today. The report includes statistics on the number of complaints received and summaries of every matter assessed or investigated by the Commission.
Greg Melick acknowledged staff for the achievements of the past year, which were made despite legislative and resourcing constraints.
“We are the most under-funded integrity body in the country. We have also been waiting for legislative amendments to improve our efficacy for nearly 10 years,” said the Chief Commissioner.
Despite these limitations the Integrity Commission has enhanced existing programs and developed new mechanisms intended to build integrity capability in the public sector.
The Operations Unit has introduced an Oversight and Compliance program and adeptly handled a significant increase in notifications arising from the Commission of Inquiry.
The lobbying reform project has substantially progressed, with the new Code of Conduct and contact disclosure requirements set to commence on 1 January 2025.
The very successful re-launch of the Investigating Misconduct training resulted in fully subscribed sessions in Hobart and Launceston.
The brand new education program for Members of Parliament was rolled out for new and returning members prior to the commencement of the new parliamentary session.
However, the Chief Commissioner emphasised the necessity for more funding:
“The marginal increase to our funds in the 2024-25 Budget does not meet our needs. If we are to fulfil our statutory obligations and meet community expectations, our resourcing needs cannot be neglected. We call on the Parliament to properly resource and empower us to be the Integrity Commission Tasmanians deserve.”
The Annual Report (PDF, 5.4 MB) is now available on the Integrity Commission’s website.
Media release by Greg Melick AO SC Chief Commissioner
Media contact
Julia Hickey, Acting CEO
communications@integrity.tas.gov.au
Ph: 1300 720 289