Fraud and corruption prevention

This document outlines the policy and processes used by Griffith City Council (Council) to detect, prevent, and control the risk and potential incidences of fraud and corruption within the organisation.

This policy draws upon the Audit Office of NSW Fraud Control Improvement Kit 2015.

Council’s obligations to control the risk of fraud and corruption are drawn from three key pieces of legislation:

• the Public Finance and Audit Act 2002.

Section 11 of the Act requires the head of an authority to ensure that there is an effective system of internal control over financial and related operations.

• the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) Act 1988.

Section 11 outlines the duty of a principal officer to notify the ICAC Commissioner.

• the Crimes Act 1900.

Establishes and defines the criminal offence of fraud and related offences (Part 4AA), and corruptly receiving commissions and other corrupt practices (Part 4A), and false and misleading information (Part 5A).

The policy also provides an overview of what is required in relation to fraud and corruption control and is supported by other Council policies and processes.

• Acts of fraud and corruption by staff and others that are connected to Council have the potential to waste scarce resources, impair organisational performance, damage staff morale and productivity, and tarnish Council’s reputation.

• This policy supports Council’s commitment to fostering an organisational culture that does not tolerate fraud and corruption, but strengthens accountability.

• A systematic approach to the planning, prevention, detection, reporting and response to fraud and corruption is the key strategy to minimise the risk of such activities occurring.