Premier of NSW retires
The first female premier of New South Wales, Gladys Berejiklian, announced her retirement as Premier and from Parliament on 1 October 2021. The announcement came after the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) announced it was formally investing the Premier’s alleged involvement in a grant sought by her then partner Daryl Maguire. It is alleged that her involvement amounts to a breach of public trust.
Independent Commission Against Corruption
The Independent Commission Against Corruption is an independent organisation responsible for investigating and exposing corruption by public officials or authorities in New South Wales. Corruption is defined in sections 7, 8 and 9 of the Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 1988. Examples include official misconduct (breach of trust, fraud in office, nonfeasance, etc), bribery, blackmail, embezzlement, etc.
While ICAC does not have the power to prosecute, it can seek the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions. ICAC investigations are not subject to the same rules of evidence that apply to other court proceedings.
Corruption, especially by persons in public office, if substantiated, is a serious offence. If you have been accused of or suspect corrupt conduct, it is essential that you seek legal advice. Learn more about ICAC or contact our criminal law team for a free initial consultation on (02) 8806 0866.
Useful NSW resources
- ICAC NSW – About and current investigations
- ICAC Act 1988 (NSW) – definitions of corrupt conduct (ss 7–9)
- NSW Government – public sector integrity information
- NSW Audit Office – governance and integrity reports