The South Australian Government has announced it has started the national search for the inaugural South Australian Independent Commissioner Against Corruption (ICAC).

 

State Attorney-General John Rau said that calls have gone out for expressions of interest from legal professionals to lead the new independent body after the ICAC legislation passed Parliament last week.

 

“First and foremost, the Commissioner will be responsible for the establishment of the Commissioner’s office and the Office for Public Integrity in South Australia,” Mr Rau said.

 

“This is a very important role and I am committed to giving the Commissioner the resources and legislative power he or she needs to do the job effectively.

 

“After all the talk about an ICAC, it is pleasing that we can end the year on a high note and get on with things.”

 

The Commissioner will be appointed for a term not exceeding seven years and may be reappointed for up to a further three years. Functions of the position will include:

 

  • identifying and investigating corruption in public administration for referral for prosecution;
  • assisting public authorities to identify and deal with misconduct and maladministration in public administration;
  • conducting educational programs designed to prevent or minimise corruption, misconduct and maladministration in public administration; and
  •  recommending any required changes to legislation related to public administration, including the ICAC Act.

 

Expressions of interest will be accepted until the close of business on 7 January, 2013.