The revelations at the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption this week serve as a timely reminder that the federal government’s proposed Commonwealth Integrity Commission would be a watchdog with some bark but hardly any bite.
Three years ago, outgoing commissioner Ken Lay ordered a review into sexual harassment and predatory behaviour at Victoria Police. The latest audit shows that while determined moves are being made, a toxic culture is hard to stamp out.
In a new book, veteran journalist Brian Toohey argues that covert CIA operatives have worked in Australia for decades, something the government has long denied.
After last year’s revelations that the Home Affairs Department was behind a clandestine scheme to influence Muslim communities, the British Home Office appears to be using similar tactics.
The crushing rejection of a parliamentary push for an investigation into Crown Casino highlights how much the major parties are in the thrall of the gambling lobby.
While the government argues it needs tough new powers to break up thuggish, militant unions, experts say the average union member is a 50-something woman working in aged care.
As federal and state governments impose tougher laws to deter animal activists from trespassing on farms, there is growing concern that journalists and whistleblowers will be unable to report on unethical farming practices.
A new proposal would give the Australian Signals Directorate access to the IT systems of Australian companies, but the agency didn’t ask for these powers.
