The Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001

EPA is committed to the aims and objectives of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 (the Act). It does not tolerate improper conduct by its employees, officers or members, nor the taking of reprisals against those who come forward to disclose such conduct.

EPA recognises the value of transparency and accountability in its administrative and management practices, and supports the making of disclosures that reveal corrupt conduct, conduct involving a substantial mismanagement of public resources, or conduct involving a substantial risk to public health and safety or the environment.

EPA will take all reasonable steps to protect people who make such disclosures from any detrimental action in reprisal for making the disclosure. It will also afford natural justice to the person who is the subject of the disclosure.

What is improper or corrupt conduct?

Improper or corrupt conduct involves substantial:

• mismanagement of public resources
• risk to public health or safety or the environment, or
• corruption.

The conduct must be criminal in nature or a matter for which an officer could be dismissed.

How do I report an allegation?

Any person who has reasonable grounds for believing that improper or corrupt conduct has occurred can make a disclosure. Disclosures can be made in writing or by telephone and may be made direct to EPA or to the Ombudsman Victoria. You may provide information anonymously. You should provide any relevant evidence such as documents that support your allegation.

How does the process work?

Allegations that meet the conditions to be considered a 'protected disclosure' will be made and kept in confidence, investigated with sensitivity to the principles of natural justice and steps will be taken to prevent the conduct from continuing or occurring in the future. If appropriate, disciplinary proceedings may be taken against a person responsible for the conduct or the matter may be referred to the appropriate authority for further consideration and action.

• Download EPA internal reporting procedure (Adobe PDF file, 297KB).

Contacts

Lea Saddington
EPA Victoria
PO Box 4395
Melbourne Victoria 3001
Telephone: (03) 9695 2803

The Ombudsman Victoria
Level 22, 459 Collins Street
Melbourne Victoria 3000
Telephone: (03) 9613 6222
Toll Free: 1800 806 314

Top