ABC: Corruption watchdog strengthened on final day of Victorian parliament

• The new laws allow IBAC to investigate non-government entities benefiting from public funding and broaden the definition of corrupt conduct.
• Amendments enable IBAC to investigate historical corruption claims received before the bill passed, but not to reopen closed or dismissed cases.

Victoria's parliament passed integrity legislation granting the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) expanded powers, including the ability to 'follow the dollar' and investigate third parties such as subcontractors who have received public funds. The reforms also broaden the definition of 'corrupt conduct' to include serious disciplinary matters, not just criminal offences, enabling IBAC to address practices like pork-barrelling and cronyism.

Amendments negotiated on the final sitting day allow IBAC to investigate historical corruption claims received before the bill's passage, though they do not permit reopening closed or dismissed investigations. The Greens, who supported the reforms, highlighted that the changes will make it easier for IBAC to hold public examinations without needing to justify 'exceptional circumstances.'

• Review the expanded definition of 'corrupt conduct' to ensure internal policies align with IBAC's new scope, including serious disciplinary matters.
• Assess relationships with non-government entities and subcontractors who have received public funding, as IBAC can now investigate these parties.
• Prepare for potential IBAC investigations into historical corruption claims received before the bill's passage, as permitted by the new amendments.

These legislative changes significantly expand IBAC's investigative reach, allowing it to pursue financial trails beyond government bodies and address misconduct that previously fell outside its remit. Compliance officers must now consider a broader range of activities as potential corruption risks, including actions that are not strictly criminal but may constitute serious disciplinary matters. The ability to investigate third parties and historical claims increases exposure for organisations and individuals involved with public funds, necessitating enhanced due diligence and record-keeping.