The Australian government on Tuesday introduced plans to create a national anti-corruption watchdog. The country has debated the need for an independent commission to investigate politicians for years.
In a statement, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Attorney General Mark Dreyfus say they want to “restore confidence in and integrity of politics” through the watchdog. Over four years, 262 million Australian dollars (converted to more than 176 million euros) must be made available for this. A bill is expected to be introduced in the Australian Parliament on Wednesday.
The commission is tasked with investigating systematic corruption by ministers of the national government, parliamentarians, political personnel and employees and contractors of government agencies. The committee members may also conduct research retroactively. They can refer their findings to the police or prosecutors if they find corruption or other criminal offences.
Several investigations by a New South Wales regional watchdog over the past decade led to the resignation of two high-ranking state politicians. Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison opposed the creation of a national commission, criticizing the hearings that took place as part of these investigations and the reputational damage they caused, including in cases that ultimately proved to be non-corruption…
The Australian government says the nationwide watchdog may only hold public hearings under “exceptional circumstances”.