Whistleblower's Protection
- What is improper or corrupt conduct?
- How does the process work?
- Related Links
- How do I report an allegation?
- Further information
- Contacts
DSE recognises the value of transparency and accountability in its administrative and management practices, and supports the making of disclosures that reveal corrupt conduct, conduct involving a substantial mismanagement of public resources, or conduct involving a substantial risk to public health and safety or the environment.
DSE will take all reasonable steps to protect people who make such disclosures from any detrimental action in reprisal for making the disclosure. It will also afford natural justice to the person who is the subject of the disclosure.
What is improper or corrupt conduct?
Improper or corrupt conduct involves substantial:
- mismanagement of public resources; or
- risk to public health or safety or the environment; or
- corruption.
How do I report an allegation?
Any person who has reasonable grounds for believing that improper or corrupt conduct has occurred can make a disclosure. Disclosures can be made in writing or by telephone and may be made direct to the Department or to the Ombudsman. You may provide information anonymously. You should provide any relevant evidence such as documents that support your allegation.
How does the process work?
Allegations that meet the conditions to be considered a 'protected disclosure' will be made and kept in confidence, investigated with sensitivity to the principles of natural justice and steps will be taken to prevent the conduct from continuing or occurring in the future. If appropriate, disciplinary proceedings may be taken against a person responsible for the conduct or the matter may be referred to the appropriate authority for further consideration and action.
Further information
Related Links

