Media release – The Australia Institute, 9 July 2021
Tasmanian Distrust of Tasmanian Integrity Commission Highlights Need for Reform
The Australia Institute commissioned uComms to poll 1,060 residents across Tasmania on the evening of 30 of June 2021.
Key Findings:
Nearly one in two Tasmanians (48.5%) distrust the Tasmanian Integrity Commission’s ability to uncover and prevent misconduct in public administration, including 19.6% who strongly distrust. Meanwhile 33.8% trust its ability, including just 6.6% who strongly trust. 17.7% were unsure.
“Our research shows there is widespread community concern about the poor performance of the Tasmanian Integrity Commission and a clear message to improve its functioning so its existing powers, including holding full inquiries with public hearings, are utilised,” said Eloise Carr, director of the Australia Institute Tasmania.
“It is little wonder Tasmanians are increasingly sceptical of the Tasmanian Integrity Commission’s ability to investigate wrong-doing, with failed inquiries into the last two state elections. The Integrity Commission was unable to investigate Premier Peter Gutwein’s handling of the preselection, support and resignation of Adam Brooks because it was outside the scope of its jurisdiction. And the Commission’s investigation of the 2018 election campaign was discontinued despite concerns the poll was influenced by a flood of anonymous donations.’
“The community is crying out for better governance, all we need now is the political will to make it happen,” Ms Carr said.
The Australia Institute Tasmania’s Good Government in Tasmania research recommends a co-ordinated approach to reform across four key areas:
- Strengthening the Tasmanian Integrity Commission
- Introducing Truth in Political Advertising laws such as those in South Australia and the Australian Capital Territory
- Adopting an Election Donations regime with a low disclosure threshold for disclosure in real time
- Improving our Right to Information system
Full question as put
Unlike integrity commissions in some other jurisdictions, the Tasmanian Integrity Commission has never held a public hearing or full inquiry, and does not have the power to investigate third parties who may be involved in public sector misconduct.
To what extent do you trust or distrust the Tasmanian Integrity Commission’s ability to uncover and prevent misconduct in public administration?
Methodology
