Corruption watchdog swamped by more than 300 complaints in first days of operation

Workers at the newly created anti-corruption watchdog have been swamped by complaints in its first few days of operation.

More than 300 complaints have been made to the National Anti-Corruption Commission since it opened its doors last weekend.

Commissioner Paul Brereton, a former NSW court of appeal judge, said there had been 44 referrals received via the body’s online system in his first speech on Monday morning.

An update provided by the watchdog on Wednesday revealed that the commission had received 186 reports submitted online and an additional 116 phone calls.

The NACC Has been swamped with complaints. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Gary Ramage

“Approximately 60 of the referrals relate to matters well publicised in the media,” the commission said.

In his opening address, Mr Brereton declared he would not tolerate attempts to “weaponise” the commission for political advantage.

“Should it be sought to ‘weaponise’ the commission through inappropriate or unfounded referrals, I will not hesitate to use the power to make public statements, if necessary, to avoid unfair damage to reputations and to say that the referral was inappropriate,” Mr Brereton said.

“We will more likely be ­interested in investigating matters that have current practical ­relevance rather than those that are historic.”

The commission will focus on allegations of “systemic or serious” corruption by Commonwealth officials, including ministers, MPs and their staff, and public servants.

Anyone, including the public and politicians, can submit a tip-off to the watchdog.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus have stressed they will not be directing the NACC to investigate anything, insisting it is independent from the government.

The commission can also launch a probe on its own motion.