The New Northern Territory ICAC: Better Corruption Offences, but Prevented by a Lack of Prevention

Abstract

The Northern Territory now has ICAC legislation in order to combat corruption. Consequential amendments were made to the Criminal Code to effect the new ICAC regime which involved overhauling corruption offences. However, although the ICAC can audit and review policies in public bodies, there is very little to prevent those convicted of corruption offences from re-entering positions of public confidence. The new corruption offences in the Northern Territory will be contrasted with those in New South Wales and, although it will be seen that the new corruption offences are far superior, there is very little to prevent those convicted of corruption offences from e-entering positions of public confidence. The existence (and lack thereof) of those barriers will be examined and the hurdles that may be faced in implementing such barriers.