Investigation outcomes

For outcomes of specific IBAC investigations, see Investigation summaries.

When an investigation finishes, we will decide whether corruption or police misconduct has occurred.

If there is evidence of corruption or police misconduct

We may:

• bring criminal proceedings for an offence relating to any matter arising out of the investigation
• refer any matter under investigation to the Office of Public Prosecutions
• refer matters to another entity (including the public body which was the subject of the investigation) for consideration of disciplinary or other action
• make recommendations about matters arising out of the investigation to the relevant principal officer of a body, the responsible Minister, or the Premier, and request a response
• publish public reports and produce key risk and prevention resources.

Can IBAC prosecute people?

IBAC can prosecute certain offences or refer matters to the Office of Public Prosecutions.

We cannot:

• decide if a person is innocent or guilty
• determine entitlements and liabilities.

Find out more about our investigative powers.

If there are no findings of corruption or police misconduct

We may:

• make no finding
• take no action
• recommend preventative action where systemic issues and organisational corruption risks are identified. This can include:
  • recommendations to strengthen the practices, policies and procedures of the public body
  • information for employees about how to prevent corruption and misconduct.

When an investigation is private, we may tell you the outcome of the investigation.

Public reporting

We publish details about both private and public investigations in our annual reports and special reports and as part of Investigation summaries.