Operation Eclipse public notice

Thursday 18 July 2019

The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) will conduct a public inquiry as part of a new investigation it is conducting into the regulation of lobbying, access and influence in NSW (Operation Eclipse).
The Commission last examined lobbying practices in its 2010 report, Investigation into corruption risks involved in lobbying (Operation Halifax). Following that investigation, the Parliament enacted the Lobbying of Government Officials Act 2011 (LOGO Act), which introduced a new regime for regulating lobbying activities in NSW.

Operation Eclipse will examine whether enhancements to the LOGO Act may be required, as well as the broader approach to addressing risks associated with lobbying and influencing practices. The public inquiry seeks to address issues such as:
•    whether levels of trust in government could be enhanced by making certain lobbying activities more transparent
•    who should be required to register as a lobbyist
•    what records of lobbying activity should be kept and by whom
•    how to ensure fair and reasonable access to government
•    what interstate and overseas practices may be suitable for implementation in NSW.

There are no allegations that any person has engaged in corrupt conduct.

The public inquiry will commence at 10:00 am on Monday 5 August 2019 in the Commission’s hearing room on Level 7, 255 Elizabeth Street, Sydney. It will initially sit for two- to three days, and will then adjourn until October.
Persons interested in discussing this matter are invited to contact Lewis Rangott on 02 8281 5999, or email lobbying@icac.nsw.gov.au.

Patrick Broad
A/Solicitor to the Commission