The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) commences today. For the first time, Australia has a national agency with broad jurisdiction to investigate serious or systemic corruption across the Commonwealth public sector.
Inaugural National Anti-Corruption Commissioner, the Hon Paul Brereton AM RFD SC, said:
‘The Australian people have expressed a clear desire for a federal anti-corruption body with jurisdiction over Commonwealth officials. We know the public are invested in this work and are watching expectantly.’
Established under the National Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2022 (the NACC Act), the NACC will enhance integrity in the Commonwealth public sector by deterring, detecting and preventing corrupt conduct involving Commonwealth public officials through education, monitoring, investigation, reporting and referral.
The NACC Act allows the Commission to carry out its work independently from government, so its investigations and findings can be impartial and free from influence.
Commissioner Brereton said:
‘I want the Commission to have the reputation of being fearless but fair. Our functions include not only detecting corruption, but also clearing the air of unfounded allegations of corruption. And also, through our education and public inquiry functions, to assist Government and Commonwealth agencies to stay on track.’
Commissioner Brereton was appointed as inaugural commissioner for a 5-year term. He brings to the role extensive experience leading complex and sensitive investigations, including as Assistant Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force when he delivered the Afghanistan Inquiry Report.
The Commissioner is supported by three Deputy Commissioners — Ms Nicole Rose PSM, Dr Ben Gauntlett and Ms Jaala Hinchcliffe.
On Monday 3 July 2023, Commissioner Brereton will address NACC staff, media and the public at an opening event in Canberra. He will articulate his approach, priorities and aspirations for the new Commission.
The opening event will by livestreamed at nacc.gov.au from 10.30 am AEST, Monday 3 July.