There will be a lot of people disappointed by this decision – and we understand that. We’re disappointed too.
The Crime Commission is entirely independent.
The Commission has said the use of complex discretionary trusts to conceal the proceeds of crime is a national problem that requires legislative reform.
That’s why the Commission – alongside several other State and Commonwealth agencies – is contributing to the development of a national approach to beneficial ownership disclosure obligations.
The NSW Government supports legislative change to ensure that people who engage in corrupt conduct are not able to hide the proceeds of these crimes.
Mr Obeid’s actions were one of the most serious examples of the misuse of public office in NSW.
The people of NSW need to have faith that public institutions and elected officials are acting in the public interest. That faith is central to a working and healthy democracy.
It’s why we support these important oversight bodies, like the Crime Commission and the ICAC – because they hold all of us to account.