The Independent Broad-Based Anti-Corruption (‘IBAC’) is an independent Victorian body that investigates and exposes public sector corruption and serious police misconduct.
What types of complaints can you make?
IBAC investigates serious corruption and police misconduct in Victoria. This covers public sector officers, local and state government staff, police, corrections, courts, public hospitals, schools, and Parliament.
Corruption by Public Sector Officers and Bodies:
Corruption is when public power, position, or money is misused for personal gain or to benefit others unfairly.
- Bribery: Offering or accepting money, gifts, or favours to influence decisions.
- Fraud, theft or embezzlement: Dishonest use of money or property for personal benefit.
- Misuse of public funds or resources: Using government money or assets for private purposes.
- Misuse of work information: Using confidential government information improperly.
- Dishonest use of influence: Using one’s role or power inappropriately to help themselves or others.
- Improper procurement or contracting: Awarding jobs or contracts without fair process.
Misconduct in Public Office:
This is serious wrongdoing by someone in a public role, even if they don’t personally gain from it.
- Abuse of authority: Using power to unfairly harm or control others.
- Conflict of interest: Failing to declare or manage personal interests that affect decisions.
- Failing to perform duties: Ignoring responsibilities or not following proper procedures.
- Improper recruitment or hiring: Giving jobs or promotions unfairly based on personal connections.
Police Misconduct (Victoria Police only):
- Excessive force: Using more physical force than necessary.
- Discrimination or prejudice: Treating people unfairly because of race, gender, disability, or religion.
- Breach of human rights: Denying basic rights or humane treatment.
- Unauthorised use of information: Accessing or sharing police data without approval.
- Criminal conduct: Drink-driving, drug use, theft, bribery, or unlawful entry.
- Conflicts of interest: Investigating matters involving close friends or family.
- Improper associations or secondary employment: Socialising with criminals or working outside approval in a way that conflicts with police duties.
- Misuse of police resources: Using police cars, systems, or equipment for personal reasons.
- Family violence, stalking, or sexual misconduct: Abusive or inappropriate behaviour by officers.
- Offensive or disgraceful behaviour: Sharing racist or sexist material, falsifying records, or acting improperly on or off duty.
Jurisdiction:
IBAC only takes complaints that involve Victorian public bodies or officers.
Time Limits:
Complaints should be made within 1 year of becoming aware of the conduct. Later complaints may still be considered if there’s a valid reason, but IBAC can dismiss old matters if evidence is missing or unreliable.
IBAC will not deal with complaints about:
- Poor service, delays, or rudeness by staff (unless linked to corruption).
- Private businesses or individuals outside the public sector.
- Court decisions, fines, or licensing disputes without evidence of corruption.
- Minor HR or workplace issues (e.g. bullying, poor management).
- Police decisions you disagree with, unless misconduct is involved.
- Complaints outside Victoria or under federal jurisdiction.
- Unimportant, vexatious, or already resolved matters.
Who can you make a complaint against?
You can make a complaint against:
- Victorian public officers: Ministers, MPs, judges, police, corrections staff, public servants.
- Public bodies: Departments, local councils, statutory authorities, public hospitals, schools, TAFEs, etc.
- Contractors or private providers delivering services for government (e.g. private prisons, cleaning, security).
Are you eligible to make a complaint?
Who can make a complaint?
- Any member of the public can complain if they experience or become aware of corruption or misconduct.
- Individuals directly affected
- Witnesses or third parties
- Anonymous complaints (though these may limit investigation options)
Before you lodge a complaint:
Before reaching out to IBAC, try resolving the issue directly with the body first, if safe and reasonable to do so.
Gather details:
Who was involved, what happened, dates/times, witnesses, and supporting evidence (emails, CCTV, records).
Can you report an issue on behalf of someone?
Yes, complaints can be lodged by advocates, carers, lawyers, or others with knowledge of the issue.
Additional Information:
- Complaints may be treated as Public Interest Disclosures (whistleblowing).
- Whistleblowers are protected from dismissal, bullying, or legal action like defamation.
- IBAC can start investigations on its own, without a complaint.
What can this body do to help?
IBAC can:
- Conduct investigations using its powers (seizures, warrants, surveillance, hearings).
- Refer matters to other bodies like the Ombudsman, Equal Opportunity Commission, or Office of Public Prosecutions.
- Publish reports and make recommendations to prevent corruption.
- In some cases, lay criminal charges or refer cases for prosecution.
How to prepare your complaint:
Personal details:
Provide your name and contact details, unless you want to stay anonymous.
Respondent’s details:
Provide details about who you are complaining about.
Relevant facts:
Provide details about what happened, when, who was involved, how you know, any witnesses, and supporting documents.
Lodging your complaint and next steps:
Where to lodge:
- Online: IBAC Online Complaint Form HERE Email: info@ibac.vic.gov.au Phone: 1300 735 135Receipt and acknowledgement: IBAC will confirm receipt (if contact details are given) within 5 working days. More information: Refer to the factsheet provided below for more information.
