We provide oversight of public sector agencies to ensure they are managed effectively and appropriately.

At the Australian Public Sector Anti-Corruption Conference in 2024, commissioners of the 10 independent anti-corruption and integrity agencies around Australia announced the Fundamental Principles of Australian Anti-Corruption Commissions.

The 12 principles provide a framework for legislation and policy governing anti-corruption and integrity commissions. Each principle is considered fundamental to the ability of an anti-corruption or integrity commission to undertake its functions independently and effectively.

The 12 fundamental principles state that commissions must have:

• the ability to receive and consider referrals from anyone
• the ability to commence an investigation on the commission’s own motion
• a mandatory reporting obligation for the heads of public sector agencies to report suspected corruption
• protections for whistleblowers and witnesses
• coercive powers to obtain information and evidence
• the ability to refer matters to a prosecuting authority
• the ability to make recommendations
• the ability to report on investigations and make public statements
• a corruption prevention and education function
• a sufficient and predictable budget
• transparency of appointments
• effective and proportionate oversight