Fraud and corruption control

We have zero tolerance for fraud committed within or against our department. Find out about our fraud and corruption policies or report fraud.

We comply with the Commonwealth fraud control framework and supporting policies. We identify, assess and, where appropriate, investigate all allegations of fraud and corruption.

We expect our staff to demonstrate high levels of personal integrity and be aware of their reporting obligations under the APS Values and Code of conduct. 

Types of fraud

Internal fraud

Fraud committed by staff or contractors against our department is ‘internal fraud’. This includes misuse of:

  • assets, equipment or facilities (including credit cards)
  • information and communication technology (ICT) systems and information
  • administrative processes
  • position.

External fraud

Fraud committed by an external party, such as a service provider or other member of the public, against the department or its programs is ‘external fraud’. This includes:

  • customers deliberately claiming benefits they know they are not eligible to receive
  • external service providers making claims for services not provided
  • contractors overcharging for services
  • theft of public resources, including money, information and property
  • providing false or misleading information or documentation.

How to report fraud

If you suspect fraud, you can report by using our anonymous online fraud control portal.

The Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources [sic] facilitates the growth and productivity of globally competitive industries.

The department is determined to take all reasonable measures to prevent and control fraud and properly manage public resources in a way that assures the integrity of the department’s activities, whilst maximising benefits for the Australian people.

Unfortunately, there are occasions where fraud and serious misconduct can occur.

The Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources [sic] encourages staff and the community to report suspicions of fraud and serious misconduct.

The department’s Fraud Control Portal provides various methods to make a report.

You have the option to use traditional channels like our Fraud Control hotline, post or email. We are pleased to also offer a confidential and secure reporting platform. Our Portal can be easily accessed via QR Code or URL. This is our preferred reporting method as it enables confidential, ongoing communication.

We do this through a secure, two-way communications platform. You can choose to remain anonymous because your IP address is scrubbed every time. It’s two-way communications because we can ask more questions and get more information all without compromising your identity.

All reports are received and assessed by our independent and experienced Fraud Integrity team.

You can also report fraud via:

  • Phone: (02) 6213 6376 during business hours
  • Post: Fraud Integrity and Assurance Team, GPO Box 2013, Canberra ACT 2601.

What we do with reports of fraud

We take all allegations seriously.

When we receive your report:

  • you will receive a case reference number and contact details
  • a qualified investigator will assess your referral
  • the assessment may take 2-4 weeks to be finalised
  • you will be notified of the outcome.

If the matter is not accepted for criminal investigation, we will advise you within 3 days of completing the assessment.

If the information identified in the assessment is sufficient to support an investigation, a senior investigator will conduct a criminal investigation. At this point you may be contacted again to provide additional information.

If the allegation is considered 'serious or complex' fraud, the senior investigator will refer the allegation to the Australian Federal Police, law enforcement agency or public sector organisation. We will advise you if this referral occurs.

 

More information

Learn about how we manage breaches of our code of conduct