By Alesha Capone
POLITICANS have hailed a new State Government anti-corruption bill, with one MP saying it could help prevent another event like the scandalous sacking of Brimbank City Council in 2009.
Earlier this month, parliament debated legislation that is set to pave the way for setting up the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC), including a commissioner, education and “corruption-prevention functions”.
The government has provided $170 million in funding over four years for the establishment and operation of IBAC.
Gembrook MP Brad Battin said IBAC could aid in averting another public service disgrace, such as the sacking of 11 Brimbank representatives following a damning report by the Ombudsman.
In 2009, the report found the former council was “dysfunctional” and some members were engaged in bullying, conflicts of interest and inappropriate influence from outsiders.
“The former Labor Government failed to set up a true independent, broad-based anticorruption commission during its 11 years in government,” Mr Battin said.
“Even after the corruption in Brimbank City Council and the proposed sham consultations for the Windsor Hotel redevelopment happened under its watch, Labor failed to introduce a comprehensive anti-corruption commission.
“This legislation is important because it will help to prevent something like what happened at the Brimbank City Council from happening again.”
Melton MP Mr Don Nardella said the former Labor Government “took the appropriate action at Brimbank.” and had the council’s behaviour investigated.
