Public interest disclosure provides a means to report suspected misconduct by public officials under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013 (PID Act)(Opens in a new tab/window).
A public official includes current or former Australian Defence Force members, Australian Public Service employees, contracted service providers and anyone employed by them, and statutory officers.
Wrongdoing
Under the PID Act, the following types of suspected wrongdoing include but is not limited to conduct that:
- contravenes a law of the Commonwealth, a State or a Territory and relates to corruption
- is an abuse of public trust or office.
- is deception relating to scientific research.
- results in wastage of public money or property.
- unreasonably results in danger to the health or safety of one or more persons.
- results in danger or risk of danger to the environment.
Making a disclosure
A disclosure can be provided via email, and the discloser can remain anonymous.
Protections
The PID Act provides broad protections for those making or intending to make a public interest disclosure. It also provides public officials with legal remedies to address reprisal action taken against them as a result of making a public interest disclosure.