Under section 8A.36 of the Local Government Act 1995, individuals involved in a complaint process must not disclose or use any information about the existence or details of a complaint unless authorised.
This includes:
- complainants
- an individual who is the subject of a complaint
- anyone dealing with a complaint
- a person who, as a result of necessary process, becomes aware of any relevant detail of a complaint.
Unauthorised disclosure is an offence and may result in a fine of up to $10,000.
Exceptions apply where disclosure is:
- required by law
- necessary for legal advice or proceedings
- directed by the Inspector in the public interest
- related to a sanction or outcome already made public
- statistical or anonymised information that cannot identify individuals.
These provisions are designed to protect the integrity of investigations and the privacy of all parties involved. Complainants are expected to maintain confidentiality until the complaint is dealt with.
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