Fraud and Corruption Control Strategy snapshot 2023-25

Fraud and corruption statement

Fraud and corruption against the Australian Governmant is a serious matter. We do not tolerate dishonest, fraudulent, or corrupt conduct. We strive to achieve best practice in managing fraud and corruption and take an adverse stance towards fraud risk. 

We recognise that we can’t avoid or prevent all fraud and corruption risk. This means despite our best efforts against fraud and corruption control, there is an inherent risk of exposure. We seek to minimise this risk exposure through a holistic approach to fraud and corruption control. 

Accountable authority

The secretary is the ultimate accountable authority under the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act). 

Fraud and Corruption Control Officer (FCCO)

The FCCO has duty to prevent, detect, and deal with fraud and corruption. The FCCO manages the fraud and corruption control function. 

Fraud and corruption risk management

Our Fraud and Corruption Risk Assessment (FCRA) process ensures we take active steps to manage inherent fraud and corruption risks.

All high-level staff are responsible and accountable for fraud and corruption risk exposure. This includes:

• division heads
• program owners
• delegates
• decision makers. 

Staff must consider all decision outcomes to avoid fraud and corruption risk exposure.

Culture and capability

We commit to creating a fraud and corruption aware and integrity focused culture. We seek to maintain a ‘safe to speak up’ workplace, to support and empower staff to speak up when suspected fraud or corruption occurs.

Knowledge of the strategy guidelines is critical.

Reporting mechanisms

Staff, contractors, program recipients, and members of the public play a critical role in detecting fraud and corruption. 

All staff must be aware of correct practice and report instances or events of suspected fraud or corruption.

Internal groups

The fraud and corruption investigation function look at suspected incidents of fraud or corruption against us and our programs. This function works under the Australian Government Investigations Standards (AGIS).

External groups

• The Australian Federal Police (AFP) are the government’s main law enforcement agency and protect national interests from crime in Australia and overseas.
• The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) looks at serious or systemic sector corruption.