30 November 2022

National Anti-Corruption Commission is legislated

The National Anti-Corruption Commission has been legislated by the Federal Parliament, and will be established in the new year.

Independent Federal Member for Indi Helen Haines marked the occasion in Parliament as a significant victory for integrity and transparency in politics.

“This day has been a long time coming. It is a moment of national significance, and this legislation is a huge step in restoring trust and integrity to politics,” Dr Haines said

“This victory is for the people of Indi who have voted for action on corruption. This is for every person who has stopped me on the street and said: ‘don’t give up on integrity, Helen’.”

Dr Haines paid tribute to the former Member for Indi Cathy McGowan, and other advocates who have worked hard over many years for an integrity watchdog. She also congratulated Attorney General Mark Dreyfus and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for their work in making the National Anti-Corruption Commission a priority.

“I also congratulate all the members of the Attorney General’s Department who have worked on this legislation, which will serve the Australian people long into the future,” Dr Haines said.

“I’m very proud to be an Independent member of this Parliament and a member of the crossbench that has moved this issue from the sidelines to the mainstream and now to legislation.”

The Bill was amended in the Senate to add further safeguards, strengthening the power of the Inspector which oversees the NACC.

“The legislation is based largely on my model and I am proud to have played a significant role in its development through the government’s consultation process and as Deputy Chair of the committee which scrutinised the Bills,” Dr Haines said.

“I am disappointed that my amendments which would have removed the exceptional circumstances clause for public hearings, and further strengthened the independence and powers of the NACC, were not agreed to by the major parties. But overall, this is good legislation and I wish the future NACC every success.”