Watchdog scraps investigation into former anti-corruption commissioner

Australia's national anti-corruption watchdog has decided to discontinue two complaint investigations into former commissioner Paul Brereton, citing the prohibitive cost and the fact that he no longer holds the position. Brereton resigned from his inaugural role as National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) commissioner in May, following significant scrutiny regarding his defense force affiliations and his management of potential conflicts of interest.

“

The national anti-corruption watchdog has decided it cannot "justify" the cost of proceeding with two complaint investigations into former commissioner Paul Brereton, given he no longer holds the position.

NACC Inspector Gail Furness announced on Wednesday that she would not proceed with the investigations, which had already incurred substantial public expense. Furness stated that her decision was based on the belief that the systemic issues identified had been resolved. She clarified that neither case involved NACC corruption but pertained solely to Mr. Brereton's conduct. "In order for the draft reports, which are in part contested, to be completed, further considerable public funds would need to be spent," she said in a statement, adding, "I cannot justify such expenditure in circumstances where Commissioner Brereton has resigned and, in my opinion, the systemic issues which had been identified have been satisfactorily addressed."

“

I cannot justify such expenditure in circumstances where Commissioner Brereton has resigned and, in my opinion, the systemic issues which had been identified have been satisfactorily addressed.

Inspector Furness also noted that the ongoing public attention surrounding Mr. Brereton's conduct had detracted from the agency's core mission. "The NACC needs to focus on detecting, investigating, and deterring corruption," the statement read. Acting Commissioner Kylie Kilgour welcomed the inspector's decision, emphasizing the absence of outstanding systemic issues. Kilgour affirmed her commitment to maintaining an open relationship with the Inspector and highlighted the NACC's ongoing prevention, education, and investigation activities.

“

The NACC needs to focus on detecting, investigating, and deterring corruption.

The investigations stemmed partly from complaints over Mr. Brereton's continued ties to the defense force after his appointment. An earlier report revealed he had advised the inspector-general of the Australian Defence Force (IGADF) on the Afghanistan war crimes inquiry while serving as NACC commissioner. Brereton had previously stated he disclosed his affiliations but not the precise nature of his work. Inspector Furness concluded that since Brereton is no longer in office and no systemic issue was highlighted, further investigation costs were not warranted. However, the NACC has implemented changes requiring all officers to disclose personal interests to enhance transparency and accountability in decision-making processes.

“

I am committed to maintaining an open and constructive relationship with the Inspector.