Since beginning operations on 31 December 2024, we have seen a steady increase in ‘referrals’/’reports’ received. These figures align with the increasing engagement and awareness of the Commission, which we view as a sign of growing recognition and trust. We are confident that this trajectory signals a solid path forward as we continue to expand our awareness and instil confidence in our mission.
Building a capable and impartial team
In our early months, we focused on building internal capability- ensuring our team is expert, impartial and responsive. This considered recruitment process has been instrumental in preparing us to respond promptly to referrals of misconduct, while upholding high standards of integrity and professionalism.
This work is anchored by the appointment of independent and impartial commissioners endorsed by the Governor-in-Council with the unanimous support of the multi-partisan Integrity Oversight Committee, ensuring the absence of any conflicts of interest. These appointments have laid the groundwork for a principles-driven Commission dedicated to upholding public trust and accountability.
A considered and purpose-driven approach
From the start, we have carefully assessed every report, with close attention to its nature, relevance and whether it falls within the scope of our oversight.
We first assess whether the reports fall within our remit. Some matters involve conduct that predates our establishment or behaviour not related to our functions, such as the actions of members of parliament from other states or territories. Other reports lack sufficient information for us to make an assessment. We do not count these reports in our figures in table 1.
This year, the Commission received 13 referrals of alleged parliamentary misconduct by Victorian members of parliament that occurred after 31 December 2024. Of these, seven were dismissed under Section 11 of our Act. Some of these matters we were required to dismiss under our legislation, such as those that relate to the views and opinions of a member of parliament. Other matters were at the Commission’s discretion to dismiss, such as those that in the view of the Commission, did not justify further action. Most of the remaining matters came to the Commission's attention towards the end of the financial year, and the Commission did not consider them until after 30 June 2025.
We are committed to a ‘no wrong door’ approach. When a matter falls outside our jurisdiction, we guide individuals to the appropriate agency wherever possible. This focus strengthens the integrity system, reinforces public trust and ensures that the key cohorts’ concerns are heard, respected and addressed appropriately.
All the information we receive is valuable, and out-of-jurisdiction reports reinforce the importance of clear communications to build understanding of our work. In response, we have placed a strong emphasis on connecting with, engaging and raising awareness among our key cohorts — members of parliament and the people who work with them.
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