Sydney barrister Philip Strickland SC to investigate ICAC handling of Hanlon case

A renowned Sydney lawyer has been named as the man to oversee a review of the bungled investigation into the former Renewal SA boss.

Philip Strickland SC, one of Australia’s most respected barristers, will conduct a comprehensive review of the failed ICAC prosecution of former Renewal SA boss John Hanlon.

Attorney-General Kyam Maher has appointed Mr Strickland as the first inspector of ICAC – with his first task to probe the investigation and subsequent prosecution of Mr Hanlon.

Mr Strickland will have the same powers as the independent Commissioner Against Corruption during his inquiry, allowing him to compel witnesses to answer questions and produce any documents he requests.

The inquiry will not only examine the actions of ICAC investigators during the inquiry into Mr Hanlon, but also the role prosecutors in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions played in the carriage of the matter through the courts system.

Phillip Strickland SC. Picture: Amanda Parkinson

Last month, after 18 months of investigation and 32 months of court hearings, prosecutors withdrew their case against Mr Hanlon, 63, of Goodwood, who was accused of using taxpayers money to fund a personal trip to Germany for the birth of his grandchild.

Their case fell apart in the days leading up to trial, when ICAC investigators conceded in court they had breached international law while in Germany.

The court also heard ICAC had been in possession of evidence supporting Mr Hanlon’s claims of innocence since August 2019, but had never disclosed it.

Mr Maher told state parliament the appointment of the ICAC inspector “cannot be overstated.’’

“Members will be well aware of the widespread coverage and debate regarding the investigation and prosecution of Mr John Hanlon, a former Chief Executive of Renewal SA,’’ he said.

“The appointment of the first Inspector will allow for me, as Attorney-General, to request that the Inspector conduct a review of this matter.’’

Former Renewal SA boss John Hanlon outside the District Court after the DPP withdrew all charges against him. Picture: Brenton Edwards

The role of Inspector takes over the previous role of Reviewer under the ICAC Act. The functions of the Inspector include the conducting of reviews relating to relevant complaints made under the ICAC Act and the Ombudsman Act, reviews requested by the Attorney-General, and other inquiries as required under different Acts.

Mr Strickland is one of the nation’s most respected barristers who has played a leading role inmany high-profile cases – most recently as prosecutor in the murder trial of NT police officer Zac Rolfe, who was acquitted over death of Kumanjayi Walker.

Several senior SA barristers welcomed Mr Strickland’s appointment and the move the request him to immediately examine the Hanlon case.

Attorney-General Kyam Maher. Picture: Roy VanDerVegt

“He is one of the best criminal barristers in Australia. His experience will be an asset. He is beyond reproach,’’ one silk said.

Iles Selley partner Matt Selley, who is representing Mr Hanlon, said Mr Hanlon expected to be contacted by the new Inspector “in due course.’’

“As is well known he has been the subject of a protracted investigation and subsequent prosecutions that were immensely stressful for him and his family,’’ he said.

“He had expected the abandonment of the last prosecution would bring closure. It is not yet clear what role is expected of Mr Hanlon in the latest investigation.’’

Mr Strickland will commence his role as Inspector on December 5.