National Anti-Corruption Commission Commissioner Resigns Two Years Early

The commissioner of the National Anti-Corruption Commission announced his resignation this week, two years before the end of his five-year term. " The commission began operations in July 2023 after the 2022 election, when integrity issues featured prominently in the campaign.

An inspector later determined the commissioner committed officer misconduct by not fully recusing himself from matters involving a person with whom he had a prior professional relationship.

A second inspector report is expected regarding consultancy work the commissioner performed for the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force while holding the NACC post. At a Senate estimates hearing, the commissioner said he had contributed to his own difficulties.

The commission has faced criticism for slow handling of complaints. One referral from August 2023 received a dismissal in June of the following year. Another matter referred on the commission's first day has received no update nearly three years later.

A multi-party parliamentary committee tabled a report this month that called for reduced backlogs, improved communication with complainants, and greater public trust. The committee has launched an inquiry into the agency's performance.

The outgoing commissioner's appointment followed a selection panel process and cabinet recommendation, then required approval by the parliamentary committee. Crossbench members have called for an independent, transparent process to select the successor.

The attorney-general stated that advertising and a selection panel are already in place. The deputy chair of the oversight committee has said the membership of the selection panel should be made public from the outset. The commission has held no public hearings since its creation.

Legislation permits such hearings only in exceptional circumstances. The deputy chair has proposed either removing that test or publishing guidance on when hearings may be opened.