The Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994 (Act) sets out a comprehensive framework for protecting public officials who disclose wrongdoing in accordance with the Act.

Public authorities are required to provide six monthly reports to the Ombudsman and to prepare annual reports under the Act.

The information to be provided in the six monthly and annual reports is outlined in the Public Interest Disclosures Regulation 2011.

From 1 January 2014, public authorities will be required to separately report in their six monthly and annual reports on:

1. public interest disclosures made by public officials in performing their day to day functions as such public officials;
2. public interest disclosures not covered by 1 that are made under a statutory or other legal obligation; and
3. all other public interest disclosures.

Ministers should ensure that this memorandum is brought to the attention of all Government agencies within their portfolios.

Barry O'Farrell MP
Premier