The National Anti-Corruption Commission (the Commission) has identified several strategic corruption priorities for 2024-2025, focusing on areas that present the greatest potential risks to integrity in the Commonwealth public sector. These priorities are shaped by intelligence gathering, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. They serve to guide the Commission’s activities, ensuring its efforts are cohesive, proactive, and impactful in combating corruption.
Corruption affecting vulnerable people
The Australian Government is responsible for delivering critical services and support to vulnerable populations, including people with disabilities, those from low socio-economic backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, individuals from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities, and both the young and elderly. Corruption in the provision of services to these groups not only undermines the quality and availability of aid but also deepens systemic inequality and exploitation. This focus aims to safeguard government programs from being manipulated for personal or private gain, ensuring that the most vulnerable in society receive the support they are entitled to.
Corruption at the border
Australia’s border is a vital point for managing trade, immigration, and national security. Corruption in border management can open the country to various risks, including illegal trafficking, environmental harm, and national security threats. The Commission will concentrate on addressing corrupt practices that undermine the integrity of border protection and management, with a view to mitigating threats to Australia’s economy, environment, and public safety.
Corruption in senior public official decision-making
Senior public officials wield considerable authority, controlling significant resources and influencing key decisions. Corruption in their decision-making processes—whether due to conflicts of interest or for personal gain—can have far-reaching economic and social consequences. The Commission’s focus here is not only on actual corruption but also the perception of it, which can erode public trust in government institutions. By targeting misconduct at high levels, the Commission seeks to restore and maintain confidence in public sector leadership.
Corruption relating to contractors and consultants
Government contractors and consultants often have access to sensitive information, which, if misused, could serve their private interests or those of their clients. The relationship between government agencies and private contractors, as well as the lack of regulation in this space, poses a significant risk of corrupt practices. The Commission aims to scrutinise these relationships more closely, ensuring transparency and accountability in how contracts are awarded and executed.
Corruption in complex procurements
Each year, the Australian Government allocates vast amounts of money to procurements and grants, making it a prime target for corrupt activity. “Complex” procurements—those involving high-value contracts, specialised expertise, or intricate funding and governance structures—are especially susceptible. Corruption in this area not only leads to financial losses but also undermines service quality and public confidence in the government. The Commission’s focus here is to safeguard the procurement process from exploitation and ensure public funds are used effectively.
Corruption in the environmental sector
Australia’s environment faces significant challenges, including climate change, habitat loss, and resource extraction. The intersection of economic development and environmental protection is a breeding ground for corrupt activity, especially given the complexities of governance and oversight in this area. The Commission will target corrupt practices in natural resource management and environmental protection, with the aim of preventing further degradation of Australia’s ecosystems and ensuring that environmental policies are upheld with integrity.
Key takeaways
The National Anti-Corruption Commission’s strategic priorities for 2024-2025 reflect its commitment to addressing corruption where it poses the most significant risks to the public sector and Australian society. By focusing on areas such as vulnerable populations, border security, senior decision-making, procurement, and environmental management, the Commission aims to strengthen public trust and ensure the ethical management of government resources. These priorities will be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain responsive to emerging threats and challenges in the fight against corruption.
