REVIEW OF PUBLIC INTEREST DISCLOSURE ACT 2010 COMMENCES

Published Wednesday, 23 November, 2022 at 03:48 PM

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, Minister for Women and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence
The Honourable Shannon Fentiman

Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman today announced the State Government had begun the review of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010.

 The Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010 facilitates the disclosure of information about wrongdoing in the public sector when it is in the public interest to do so, as well as providing protections for those who make disclosures.

The review was recommended by Professor Coaldrake AO in his report, Let the Sunshine In: A Review of culture and accountability in the Queensland public sector

“Making a protected public interest disclosure, or ‘whistleblowing,’ plays an important role in modern democratic government,” Minister Fentiman said.

“It contributes to open, transparent and accountable government and public administration.”

The Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010 is a key part of Queensland’s integrity framework, and it is important that this legislation is effectively achieving its goals and reflects international best practice.”

Minister Fentiman announced that the Honourable Alan Wilson KC had been appointed to conduct the review, saying he possessed impeccable credentials for the role.

“Mr Wilson was appointed as a judge of the Supreme Court and the inaugural President of the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal in 2009,” Minister Fentiman said.

“He retired from the Supreme Court in March 2015.

“Prior to his judicial career, Mr Wilson worked extensively as a barrister and took silk in 1999. He was a District Court Judge from 2001 to 2009, a Planning and Environment Court Judge from 2001 to 2009, and a Childrens Court judge from 2003 to 2009.

“I thank Mr Wilson for taking on this incredibly important role. Queenslanders can have faith that a vital pillar of our state's integrity framework is in the very capable hands of the Honourable Alan Wilson KC,” the Attorney-General said.

The review of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010 is expected to be completed by 30 April 2023.

 

Media contact:   Phoenix Campbell  0439 949 719