NSW Labor has condemned the Premier for refusing to support independent funding of the State’s anti-corruption body during Question Time at NSW Parliament.
A week after Gladys Berejiklian gave evidence to the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) about her former partner Daryl Maguire, the Auditor-General raised serious concerns about the financial independence of integrity agencies, including ICAC.
The review found the existing funding arrangements, including the Premier’s ability to restrict access to money, threatens the fairness, impartiality and transparency of:
- The Independent Commission Against Corruption
- The NSW Electoral Commission
- The NSW Ombudsman
- The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission
It also emerged Ms Berejiklian has rejected three funding requests from ICAC in five years, including during the investigation into Mr Maguire.
The NSW Labor Leader Jodi McKay said independence is more important than ever, given the recent revelations.
“How can ICAC be expected to investigate the Premier, who they rely on for funding?” Ms McKay said.
“Labor has always supported strong integrity agencies that need independent funding. If the Premier fails to act, the Parliament will.
“There are three recommendations. We accept them without hesitation. If the Premier is genuine about fighting corruption, she needs to do the same today.”