Teals call for anti-corruption watchdog reform after robodebt review (31 Oct 2024)
Article summary: Teal independents are calling for reforms to Australia’s National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) following concerns over Commissioner Paul Brereton’s handling of a potential conflict of interest in the robodebt case.
Commissioner Brereton initially recused himself from a decision on whether to investigate six officials linked to robodebt, citing a personal acquaintance with one of the referred individuals. However, a review has revealed that Brereton remained significantly involved in the decision-making process, prompting criticism and calls for more stringent oversight of the NACC’s operations to protect public trust.
Independent MP Kate Chaney expressed disappointment with the NACC’s handling of the issue, stressing the importance of a well-functioning anti-corruption body. “A proper functioning NACC is essential to rebuilding trust and this is not a great start,” Chaney posted on X, formerly Twitter. She emphasised that the robodebt case warranted serious consideration due to its scale and impact on the public, stating, “Robodebt seems worthy of investigation so of course there is strong scrutiny about perceived conflicts. This should not be a surprise to the commissioner.” Chaney warned that restoring public confidence in the NACC would now face additional challenges, adding, “Rebuilding trust from here will be challenging.”
Fellow independent MP Kylea Tink also voiced strong concerns, describing Brereton’s position as “untenable.” Tink highlighted that Brereton’s conduct has made him the first public figure implicated in misconduct under the NACC legislation, a significant breach given his role as head of the agency. “In light of this I think the current commissioner’s position is untenable & I expect both he (and) the government to take appropriate action,” Tink stated.
In response, the NACC acknowledged that Brereton had misjudged “the extent to which a perceived conflict of interest required him to be isolated.” Brereton himself admitted his error, remarking, “Mistakes are always regrettable, but the most important thing is that they be put right.” To address the matter, the NACC will appoint an independent person to reassess the decision on whether to investigate the officials linked to the robodebt scheme.
This incident highlights broader concerns about the integrity and independence of the NACC, which is only 16 months old. The controversy also underscores the agency’s obligation to handle sensitive cases such as robodebt with transparency and impartiality. Paul Brereton, a respected figure who previously led the investigation into alleged war crimes by Australian troops in Afghanistan, now faces significant scrutiny over his actions in this case, intensifying calls for the NACC to demonstrate accountability in its processes.
Related article: National Anti-Corruption Commission begins its work (1 July 2023)
