🗞️Multiple Probes into Robodebt Scheme: NACC's Decision Not to Pursue

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Six public officials involved in the Robodebt scandal are the subject of new corruption investigations by the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), which has declared that it will not pursue these cases.

The background

In accordance with section 6P(2B) of the Royal Commissions Act 1902 (Cth), the National Anti-Corruption Commission (Commission) received referrals regarding six public officials from the Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme (Robodebt Royal Commission) on July 6, 2023.

Based on information obtained, the Commission has learned that five of the six public servants were also referred to the Australian Public Service Commission (APSC). 

The APSC was looking into 16 former public servants, the government announced in November. However, the attorney general would not comment on NACC investigations.

Between 2015 and 2019, the scheme fraudulently collected over $1.7 billion in debt against over half a million recipients of social security.

NCC Statement

The Commission reviewed the material provided by the Robodebt Royal Commission and discovered that five of the six officials were also subjected to referrals to the Australian Public Service Commission.

The Commission is aware of the impact of the Robodebt Scheme on individuals and the seniority of the officials involved.

However, the Commission has concluded that it is unlikely to obtain significant new evidence and that conducting multiple investigations into the same matter could lead to inconsistent outcomes, further burdening the individuals involved, and potentially perpetuating injustice and unfair treatment.

The Commission will persist in addressing integrity issues highlighted in the final report, specifically concerning ethical decision-making, to guarantee that lessons are absorbed and public officials are held accountable for their actions.

Why does this matter

This issue is crucial as it underscores the need for accountability and transparency in government operations, especially in managing public funds and making decisions that directly influence the lives of individuals. Furthermore, it stresses the critical need to establish robust oversight and ethical standards within government agencies to prevent the recurrence of such issues in the future.

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