ICAC calls for reform to stamp out corruption among MPs

The NSW corruption watchdog wants changes to MPs code of conduct after findings of corrupt conduct against the former premier.

Former Wagga MP Daryl Maguire. Picture: AAP

The NSW corruption watchdog has made 18 recommendations in the wake of its findings of corrupt conduct against former premier Gladys Berejiklian and her former boyfriend Daryl Maguire, including the adoption of a comprehensive framework for MPs to avoid and disclose conflicts of interest.

ICAC has used its statutory powers to make a recommendation that the NSW government ensure education programs for ministers and MPs “address the management of political interests when exercising public power”.

Under the ICAC Act, the government must inform the commission within three months whether it proposes to implement the plan of action and provide progress ­reports.

MPs would be made aware “that public power to appoint to a public office must be exercised for a public purpose, not for a private or a political purpose.

“Further, a public power cannot be exercised in relation to the location of a public facility because it will assist the re-election of a party member, rather than it being the proper place for it.”

Those recommendations follow findings by the ICAC that Ms Berejiklian acted corruptly and breached the public trust when she sought to award a $5.5m government grant to the Australian Clay Target Association, in Mr Maguire’s electorate, without disclosing to colleagues the nature of her close, personal relationship with him. At the time, Ms Berejiklian was NSW treasurer.

It also found she “partially exercised her official functions” in relation to her decision-making over a $10m grant to the Riverina Conservatorium of Music, also located in Mr Maguire’s electorate and which “she knew was ­advanced by Maguire”.

The government should develop guidelines for the preparation and funding of business cases over applications for grants by non-government entities, ICAC said.

The code of conduct for MPs and their staff should clarify the “limited circumstances in which it is acceptable to intermingle parliamentary duties with personal or private activities”.

In particular, this review should address the use of parliamentary staff, parliamentary offices and travel allowances

The ICAC Act should also be amended to set requirements for the premier “to respond to the corruption prevention recommen­dations of the commission”.