Probe into IBAC’s leaked Labor report

The Victorian Inspectorate is probing Adem Somyurek’s claims that IBAC leaked its damning interim report into corruption within Victorian Labor.

A preliminary investigation has been launched into the leaking of a damning interim report into corruption within the Victorian ALP.

Interim findings of the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission which found wrongdoing and the likely misuse of publicly funded staff across Labor’s factions were last week leaked before a final report is tabled in parliament.

Former minister Adem Somyurek asked the Victorian Inspectorate to investigate the leak.

Mr Somyurek, who is central to the probe, has stated he believes IBAC leaked the report and other sensitive information.

The Inspectorate has confirmed it has launched an assessment of Mr Somyurek’s complaint.

The interim document was provided to witnesses and those accused of wrongdoing so they could rebut information or take legal action before the final report was published.

The IBAC’s legislation has protections to ensure those called by the commission have the chance to reply to accusations in a final report.

Adem Somyurek claims IBAC leaked a report into corruption within Victorian Labor. Picture: Ian Currie

It is a serious offence to disclose details, while parties are bound by confidentiality.

Mr Somyurek said it was vital the source of the leak was exposed.

“I will provide the Victorian Inspectorate with information concerning other leaks by IBAC over the two-year duration of the Operation Watts investigation,” he said.

“The parliament of Victoria provided IBAC with extreme coercive powers to fight corruption and criminal behaviour.

“As parliamentarians, we entrusted IBAC with these powers to be used judiciously, particularly in protecting confidential information and affording Victorians natural justice and fair process.

“Victorians want to know that their integrity bodies have not been compromised at a time when trust in our public institutions have been eroded by a premier who has ridden roughshod over our Westminster parliamentary democracy and stacked our public service and government agencies with ALP apparatchiks and mates.”

Premier Daniel Andrews was secretly grilled at an IBAC hearing. Picture: David Crosling

Mr Somyurek said the leaking of the interim report highlighted the erosion of public trust in the state’s integrity bodies.

“(They) must be beyond reproach if the integrity regimen is to function to its legislated purpose,” he said.

“No one or institution is above the law. Victorians should be reassured in the knowledge that despite its extreme powers IBAC faces independent oversight by the Victorian Inspectorate.

“Whilst it is important that the public know that the Victorian Inspectorate is investigating this serious breach, I will not be making any further public comments on the Victorian Inspectorate’s investigation.”

A complaint from Mr Andrews in 2020 triggered the investigation by IBAC, a joint operation with Victoria’s Ombudsman, into accusations of branch stacking by Mr Somyurek and his allies.

In damning public hearings, IBAC heard weeks of evidence that showed staffers regularly helped their bosses amass factional power while on taxpayer time.

This included allegations they were directed to assist in branch stacking operations, fill out internal party ballots on behalf of members and pay for memberships of people who had no idea they were still in the Labor Party.