Protected Disclosures

A new Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012 (the Act) replaces the Protected Disclosures Act 2012. It provides the way for people to make a disclosure of improper conduct and detrimental action by Councillors and Council staff.

Council takes seriously its responsibilities to those persons who may make a disclosure about improper conduct. It has established guidelines to ensure the confidentiality of the identity of the person making the disclosure, and their welfare, are protected.

The main objective of the Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012 (the Act) is to encourage and facilitate the making of disclosures of improper conduct by public officers and public bodies and establish a system for matters to be investigated. The Act provides protection from detrimental action to any person affected by a protected disclosure whether it is a person who makes a disclosure, a witness, or a person who is the subject of an investigation.

Disclosures Guidelines

Council has developed its approach to assess and manage any disclosures received regarding Council officers or employees. This includes roles and responsibilities, confidentiality, making a disclosure, receiving and assessing a disclosure, protections and management of the personnel involved.

View the Protected Disclosure Guidelines.

Enquiries

Enquiries regarding public interest disclosures can be made to the Protected Disclosure Coordinators: Chief Executive Officer and Manager People and Culture on 5662 9200 or council@southgippsland.vic.gov.au.

Further information and guidance may be sought from IBAC (Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission) via telephone 1300 735 135 or online at www.ibac.vic.gov.au