Minns overhauls anti-corruption rules in response to ICAC findings
NSW politicians will have to disclose more about their financial interests, and those of their immediate family, under reforms proposed after former premier’s failure to reveal relationship with disgraced former MP Daryl Maguire.
NSW
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NSW politicians could be forced to disclose more information about their financial interests and those of their immediate family under changes to be proposed by the Minns government.
Among a sweep of reforms updating the ministerial code, the government will also be legally required to respond to any recommendations made by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).
Under the proposed changes, which are planned to be introduced from July 1, MPs will be required to disclose additional new matters including conflicts of interest, with members expected to make disclosures more frequently.
The new reforms are a response to recommendations from the ICAC investigation into former premier Gladys Berejiklian and her failure to disclose her relationship with disgraced former MP Daryl Maguire.
The reforms also take into consideration the ICAC recommendations from Operation Witney, which found former Drummoyne MP John Sidoti had attempted to assert improper influence over local government decisions in order to benefit his family’s property holdings.
As part of this, the new reforms will include tighter guidelines for the preparation and funding of business cases in regards to grant applications from community organisations seeking funding. It will also boost anti-corruption education programs for members.
The government will also amend the preamble to the NSW Ministerial Code of Conduct to include principles of selflessness, integrity and honesty, meaning a breach could lead to a corrupt finding in future ICAC investigations.
Premier Chris Minns said restoring trust in the state’s politicians was essential.
“Restoring trust in government is of the highest priority and we’re pleased to build on our integrity reform agenda,” he said.
“It’s critical that our expectations of every minister and every member is made clear.
“The people of NSW need to have faith that politicians and elected officials are acting in the public interest. That faith is central to a working and healthy democracy.”
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