A System Under Siege
For over a decade, Tasmania’s Integrity Commission has operated with one hand tied behind its back, undermined by weak legislation, chronically inadequate funding, and a lack of support from political leaders. In an era where public trust in government is already at an all-time low, this continued neglect is not just disappointing, it’s dangerous.
Failed Reforms
The Cox Review in 2016 put forward 55 recommendations to strengthen our integrity system, all of which were accepted by the government either in full or in principle. Nearly a decade later, the government has implemented just 6 of those 55 recommendations. This continued inaction isn’t just a procedural issue—it has practical implications.
Inadequate Resources
The Chief Integrity Commissioner, Greg Melick, has stated: “We are the most under-funded integrity body in the country. We have also been waiting for legislative amendments to improve our efficacy for nearly 10 years.” The Integrity Commission was allocated $3.7 million in last year’s budget. If it had been funded on the same per capita basis as Victoria’s anti-corruption commission, it would have received almost $2 million more.
Accountability Crisis
It is almost impossible to investigate allegations against Tasmanian members of parliament and their staff unless they consent to it. This is a joke. There are currently Tasmanian members of parliament under investigation, investigations that remarkably have been ongoing for over two years.
Taking Action
It was clear to me that something needed to change, which is why I obtained a commitment from the Premier to a new review as part of the agreement to enable the minority Liberal Government to survive. With the Government having run out of excuses, Parliament supported my motion calling for the implementation of all the high priority recommendations by the end of this year.
My Commitment
Integrity bodies are integral to functioning democracies and serve as safeguards against corruption. When corruption goes unchecked or misconduct is swept under the rug, it’s Tasmanians who pay the price—through wasted public money, backroom deals, and a political culture that prioritizes self-protection over public service.
I will keep pushing until we have an integrity system that is truly independent, properly resourced, and able to do its job. Now the government must act. There can be no more excuses and no more delays.
