The National Anti-Corruption Commission’s (NACC) chief commissioner, Paul Brereton, is under scrutiny following revelations that he continues to provide “critical” consultancy to the Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force (IGADF). This comes despite previous assurances that he had resigned from his role with the Defence Force prior to leading the federal watchdog.
Earlier this year, a statement from the corruption watchdog, on behalf of Mr. Brereton, indicated that he had stepped down as assistant inspector-general of the ADF in May 2023, before assuming the chief commissioner position. However, Department of Defence documents reveal that Mr. Brereton, who spearheaded the landmark inquiry into alleged war crimes in Afghanistan, maintains a consulting role with the IGADF.
Continued Role with Defence
In response to inquiries from the ABC, the commission confirmed that Mr. Brereton had indeed resigned from his ADF role before becoming commissioner but acknowledged his occasional consultancy for the IGADF since June 2023. “This assistance has been infrequent and is necessary given his extensive knowledge and expertise in the specific inquiry subject matter,” the agency stated.
The commission insists that Mr. Brereton’s dual roles do not compromise his duties as commissioner. “Any perceived or actual conflict of interest that arises is managed appropriately,” they added. Nevertheless, a freedom of information request for records of Mr. Brereton’s resignation was denied, with Defence stating no such document could be found.
Military Ties and Extensions
Mr. Brereton’s military ties have been extended beyond the mandatory retirement age, with his current extension lasting until August 27, 2026. Documents released under FOI highlight the necessity of his retention for “continuity and capability” within the IGADF, emphasizing his “unique and extensive experience” in the inquiry subject matter.
A section of the paperwork specifically notes that Mr. Brereton possesses a “critical skill” requiring his continued army membership. This extension underscores the Defence Department’s reliance on his expertise, which cannot be easily replaced by standard means.
Independence Under Scrutiny
The revelations have sparked concerns about Mr. Brereton’s ability to maintain independence, given the NACC’s oversight of the Defence Force and ongoing investigations into potential corruption. Crossbench politicians have expressed worries about the blurred lines between Mr. Brereton’s roles.
“Previously, the commissioner told the public and parliament his role with Defence was entirely honorary; these documents show he has a significant, ongoing role within Defence,” said Greens Senator David Shoebridge.
Independent Senator David Pocock echoed these concerns, emphasizing the importance of the commissioner dedicating full attention to the NACC role without external engagements. “To provide assurance that they are full-time, focused on the role, and that they don’t have perceived or real conflicts of interest they have to manage,” he stated.
Expert Opinions and Future Implications
Geoffrey Watson, Director of the Centre for Public Integrity, expressed disappointment over Mr. Brereton’s continued consultancy for the IGADF. “This can’t be managed by Mr. Brereton stepping away from IGADF-related investigations. His connections are too long and too deep,” Watson argued.
Watson suggested that Mr. Brereton should step aside from all military-related matters, though he acknowledged the challenges this presents given the Defence Department’s significant interactions with the NACC.
The NACC maintains that any potential conflicts of interest are handled appropriately. Earlier reports indicated that Mr. Brereton had recused himself from six Defence matters, delegating them to a deputy.
Looking forward, the FOI material indicates that Mr. Brereton is not expected to continue his IGADF consultancy beyond his current extension. “There is presently no expectation that a further CRA extension request will be required beyond 2026,” the documents noted.
As the situation unfolds, the balance between Mr. Brereton’s dual roles will remain a focal point in discussions about integrity and transparency within Australia’s public service.
