A final report into the culture and accountability of Queensland’s state government has revealed several issues, including tolerance of bullying and a disproportionate influence of lobbyists on politicians.
The Let the Sunshine In review, headed by Queensland University of Technology vice-chancellor Peter Coaldrake, has shone a light on integrity concerns within the state government.
The review was initiated by the Palaszczuk government amid claims from former public commissioners and whistle-blowers of political interference and integrity issues.
The 100-page report addressed “worrying features” of the government, including bullying and short-term political thinking.
Coaldrake reported a culture of fear within the public service “of the unwanted impacts and loss of employment status for unwelcome advice”.
“Pressure from ministerial advisers that minimise problems” was said to influence this culture.
The report also found instances of “bullying from above, moderating advice to suit a perceived preferred outcome … and a desire to refer a problem rather than making a decision or finding a solution”.
Coaldrake also reported “allegations of bullying and belittling, and the resulting or perceived isolation of ‘difficult’ people in the workplace”.
The report has made recommendations for a “clearing house” to be established, with the purpose to narrow down corruption complaints.
Only serious allegations will be passed on to be investigated by the Crime and Corruption Commission.
Coaldrake has also recommended for cabinet decision-making to be made more transparent, with submissions, agendas and papers to be made public within 30 days of a decision being made.
Opposition leader David Crisafulli weighed in on the report, calling for a Royal Commission into corruption allegations.
“It doesn’t address the integrity inferno at the heart of the corruption risk that is the Palaszczuk government,” Crisafulli said.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk is yet to publicly respond to the findings.
In a statement, a spokesperson said the Premier “welcomes the comprehensive review”.
“The Premier commissioned the review in the constant effort to improve ways in which Queenslanders can be served by their government,” the spokesperson said.
“She is reading the report and will give a full response at an appropriate time.”