Protected Disclosures

On 10 February 2013, the Protected Disclosure Act 2012 replaced the Whistleblower Protection Act 2001.

The new legislation implements changes to the way disclosures about improper conduct by public bodies and public officers are reported and handled.

The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) does not tolerate improper conduct by its employees, officers or members. Neither does it tolerate reprisals being taken against those who come forward to disclose such improper conduct.

New procedures to provide guidance to members of the public and employees of DPI are currently being developed. The procedures will give advice on how to make a disclosure, how disclosures will be handled and how the department will ensure that persons who make a disclosure are not subjected to detrimental action as a result of making a disclosure.

Disclosures about DPI or its employees must be made to the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) or to the department's Protected Disclosure Coordinator.

Contact details for making a disclosure or seeking further advice are set out below. The IBAC website contains further information about the new disclosure framework.

Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission
Telephone: 1300 735 135

Protected Disclosure Coordinator - Department of Primary Industries
GPO Box 4440
Melbourne VIC 3001
Telephone: (03) 9658 4012

Ombudsman Victoria
9/459 Collins Street (North Tower)
Melbourne VIC 3001
Telephone: (03) 9613 6222
Telephone (toll free): 1800 806 314