What is corruption

When someone acts corruptly, they tend to show a deliberate intent and/or an improper purpose or motivation.

Corrupt behaviour in the workplace presents in many forms. Some examples include:

• abuse of public office
• blackmail
• bribery, including bribery in relation to an election
• deliberately releasing confidential information
• extortion
• obtaining or offering a secret commission
• fraud or stealing
• forgery
• perverting the course of justice
• an offence relating to an electoral donation
• loss of revenue of the state by tax evasion
• falsification of records.

The technical name for corruption under legislation is serious misconduct. Corruption and serious misconduct are the same thing.

Report corruption

Anyone can report serious misconduct to the CCC. All reports are treated confidentially. However, if the CCC decides to refer an allegation to a public sector agency for action, details about the person making a report and the information provided may be forwarded to the public sector agency. 

Alternatively, a report can be made anonymously. However, an anonymous report limits the action the CCC can take, as it is unable to request further information if required. If you are concerned about being identified, please contact the CCC before submitting your report.

There are several ways to report corruption. The CCC preference is to receive online reports as it ensures information is captured in your words and can be processed quicker. 

When making a report please provide details of the people involved, the conduct and why you suspect it may be corruption. Include as much information as possible, such as dates, times, locations and witnesses. Documents and other materials can be attached in support of your allegation. Please do not include any original records of documents. 

It is an offence to make a malicious or reckless report or to provide false or misleading information.