The Victorian Government has released draft plans for a Parliamentary Integrity Commissioner for public comment and feedback.

The establishment of a Parliamentary Integrity Commission extends the State’s integrity and anti-corruption system to include MPs, Ministers and ministerial staff.

Deputy Premier Rob Hulls said the Commissioner would be a “unique, specialist integrity body” empowered to receive complaints from the public about the conduct of Members of Parliament, Ministers and their publicly funded staff.

The Commissioner will investigate complains, and refer cases of serious misconduct or corruption to the proposed Victorian Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission.

It will also provide advice, guidance and training; monitor codes of conduct and the MPs Register of Interests; and identify and report on systemic issues.

Mr Hulls said legislation to reform Victoria’s integrity and anti-corruption system would be progressively developed through 2011, for implementation in 2012.

“The Government has made critical improvements to Victoria’s integrity and anti-corruption system over time, restoring independence, powers and resources to these important institutions during the past decade,” Mr Hulls said.

“The reforms set out in the Proust review and adopted by the Government represent the next step in the Brumby Labor Government’s ongoing commitment to increasing the transparency of public administration in Victoria.”

For more information on the Parliamentary Integrity Commission exposure draft and Ministerial code visit www.dpc.ic.gov.au.

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