IBAC calls on public sector employees to speak up to stop improper influence

Victoria's Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) has launched a new campaign encouraging Victorian public sector employees to speak up to stop improper influence.

IBAC's 'Speak up to stop it' campaign highlights that any public sector employee, elected or not, is at risk of being improperly influenced – and that it can lead to corruption.

IBAC Commissioner, The Honourable Robert Redlich AM, QC said Victorian public sector employees must make decisions that are in the best interest of the Victorian community – free from bias, collusion and favouritism.

"However, public sector employees need to be aware that they can be used by others to gain access to their colleagues, confidential information or to taxpayer funded resources.

"A public sector employee may be improperly influenced to make a decision through pressure, favours or gifts, or more subtly through abuse of seniority or position.

"Often a relationship can start out as professional, but over time develop into one where a person is being influenced in a way that’s not consistent with the community's expectations - this is improper influence,” Commissioner Redlich said.

IBAC's investigations have revealed a variety of sources of improper influence, including internal colleagues, lobbyists, suppliers and ministerial advisors. Decision makers in local and state Government can be at risk of improper influence through manipulation of governance processes or even donations.

"It is not just Government departments or agencies that are at risk, the public sector also includes schools, hospitals, councils and more. The potential sphere of improper influence is far and wide," Commissioner Redlich said.

This campaign encourages all Victorian public sector employees to recognise and speak up when they see or experience someone trying to improperly influence them or a colleague.

If you see or experience improper influence, you should report it to a manager. You can also make a formal complaint or report information to IBAC via our website.

 

Information for media

IBAC Deputy Commissioner David Wolf is available for comment.

Background

  • IBAC is Victoria's independent agency responsible for preventing and exposing public sector corruption and police misconduct.
  • Our vision is a public sector and police that acts with integrity for all Victorians.
  • Reporting corruption and misconduct can assist IBAC to gather intelligence that informs recommendations for the public sector to strengthen its policies and procedures to address systemic corruption issues and risks. Some complaints lead to important investigations that result in disciplinary action and criminal prosecutions.
  • Recent examples of IBAC investigating improper (undue) influence in the public sector: Operation Sandon