The Northern Territory Independent Commissioner Against Corruption (ICAC), Ken Fleming QC has provided an update on the activities to establish the Office of the ICAC.

A special report released today shows the progress being made on reports and investigations, staffing, business systems and processes, and corruption prevention activities during the 100 days since the commencement of The Independent Commissioner Against Corruption Act.

“It is clear to me, from the reports made to my office and matters which I have looked into, that public administration in the Northern Territory is as susceptible to corruption as any jurisdiction,” Commissioner Fleming said.

“I have received reports of serious corruption and I intend to investigate these matters to the full extent of my powers to bring those responsible to account.

“I will use the powers of this position carefully, and I may exonerate people accused of improper conduct where there is no basis for allegations.

“People who have been involved in, or have reasonable suspicion of, improper conduct must come forward and tell their story. The powers of the ICAC are broad and our reach is very deep, and not coming forward could have serious consequences for those involved in, or aware of, improper conduct.”

In its first 100 days, the Office of the ICAC has:

• received more than 100 reports alleging serious and improper conduct and initiated investigations into a number of matters
• issued guidelines and directions on mandatory reporting, whistleblower protections and staff conduct
• appointed staff to support the ICAC and put in place processes, procedures and key business systems
• researched and designed a swearing-in practice in consultation with interstate partner agencies
• developed a conflict of interest management approach which is informed by national and international best practice
• commenced building a relationship with Northern Territory integrity agencies to provide clarity for public bodies and public officers on where to report improper conduct and other sensitive complaints
• met with government working groups and CEs to provide clarity on the role and functions of the ICAC and how they will be performed
• presented to NTG agencies on a range of topics including mandatory reporting obligations, definitions of improper conduct and the powers of the ICAC
• drafted a Business Case to present the rationale for equipping the Office of the ICAC with a contemporary, end-to-end business system to manage cases (reports of improper conduct) and investigations
• commenced implementing business systems and processes to meet the needs of the agency
• commenced a strategic stakeholder engagement campaign, including a series of public information sessions throughout the NT’s major regional centres, to be advertised in major new outlets across the NT

A full report on the ICAC’s progress to date is attached.

Media contact: icac.communications@icac.nt.gov.au