20 December 2023
Statement by the Hon. Ann Vanstone KC
Commissioner, Independent Commission Against Corruption
Earlier this year I announced that the Commission would be examining lobbying in South Australia.
Since that time we have undertaken substantial work on this initiative, including the release of a Discussion Paper and inviting submissions on the topic.
The Commission received 17 written submissions and has conducted interviews with interested parties. The submissions and interviews have proved very helpful in elucidating the issues and pointing towards potential areas for reform of lobbying regulation in this state.
One matter which has become apparent as the project has progressed is the need to have a detailed understanding of the regulatory scheme created by the Lobbyists Act 2015. The responsibility for administering this scheme sits with the Department for the Premier and Cabinet. Accordingly, I have determined, pursuant to s 7(1)(b) of the Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 2012, to conduct an evaluation of the practices, policies, and procedures of that Department insofar as they relate to the administration of that scheme. I have advised the Chief Executive of this decision and have received every assistance from his Department.
On 1 December 2023 I appeared before the Crime and Public Integrity Policy Committee to discuss the Commission’s activities. I advised the Committee of our intention to convene a public forum in early 2024 to further explore lobbying and influence. Experts and interested parties will be invited to attend and share their expertise, experience and opinions about the benefits, risks, and regulation of lobbying activity in South Australia, and how it compares with the schemes operating in other jurisdictions.
The forum will not be looking at any allegations or suggestions of wrongdoing by any particular persons. Rather, it will be a forward looking exercise, concerned with matters of policy arising from our growing understanding of the integrity risks associated with lobbying.
Following the public forum, the Commission will formally report its work to parliament.
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For media enquiries please contact 0428 389 493 or media@icac.sa.gov.au.
The publication of this information has been authorised by the Commissioner under section 54 of the Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 2012.
Related Downloads:
Public Statement - 20 December 2023
