Corruption thrives in silence. This site exists to help Australians understand their rights, access accountability mechanisms, and report misconduct by public institutions.
POLICE MISCONDUCT
How to File a Complaint Against Victoria Police
If you have been assaulted, mistreated, or witnessed misconduct by Victoria Police, you have the right to file a formal complaint. There are two independent pathways: IBAC (Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission) for serious misconduct and corruption, and the Police Conduct Unit for professional standards complaints. Both can be filed simultaneously.
- 1.IBAC — Call 1300 735 135 or email info@ibac.vic.gov.au
- 2.Police Conduct Unit — policeconductunit@police.vic.gov.au
- 3.Request your complaint be treated as a public interest disclosure
- 4.You have 3 years to file a civil claim for compensation
- 5.No-win no-fee lawyers specialise in police misconduct cases
OVERSIGHT BODIES
Australia's Anti-Corruption Watchdogs — A Complete Guide
Every Australian state and territory has an independent body tasked with investigating corruption and misconduct in public institutions. These bodies operate independently of the organisations they investigate and have powers to compel evidence, conduct hearings, and make findings.
- 1.IBAC (Victoria) — 1300 735 135 — ibac.vic.gov.au
- 2.ICAC (NSW) — 1800 463 909 — icac.nsw.gov.au
- 3.CCC (Queensland) — 1800 061 611 — ccc.qld.gov.au
- 4.CCC (Western Australia) — 1800 809 000 — ccc.wa.gov.au
- 5.ICAC (South Australia) — 08 8463 5173 — icac.sa.gov.au
- 6.Integrity Commission (Tasmania) — 1300 720 289
- 7.NACC (Federal) — 1800 619 745 — nacc.gov.au
WHISTLEBLOWER
Public Interest Disclosure — How Whistleblower Protections Work
Australian law protects people who report corruption, misconduct, or dangers to public health and safety. A public interest disclosure (PID) gives you legal protections against retaliation, confidentiality safeguards, and immunity from civil or criminal liability for making the disclosure. You do not need a lawyer to make a disclosure.
- 1.You are protected from the moment you make the disclosure
- 2.Your employer cannot fire, demote, or harass you for reporting
- 3.Your identity can be kept confidential
- 4.You can disclose to IBAC, the Ombudsman, or NACC
- 5.If your disclosure is not acted upon, you may be able to go to the media
KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
What to Do If You Are Assaulted by Police
Being assaulted by a police officer is a crime. Officers are not above the law. If this happens to you, your immediate priorities are medical treatment, evidence preservation, and legal representation. Do not make a statement to police without a lawyer present.
- 1.Seek medical treatment — hospital records become evidence
- 2.Photograph all injuries immediately
- 3.Write down everything while it is fresh — times, locations, badge numbers
- 4.Do not make a statement to police without a lawyer
- 5.File with IBAC (1300 735 135) — independent of police
- 6.Contact a no-win no-fee police misconduct lawyer
- 7.You have the right to film police in public places
LEGAL RESOURCES
Free Legal Help for Victims of Institutional Misconduct
You do not need money to access legal help in Australia. Multiple organisations provide free legal advice, representation, and advocacy for people who have experienced misconduct by police, hospitals, or government agencies.
- 1.Victoria Legal Aid — 1300 792 387 (free, 24/7 for urgent matters)
- 2.IMHA (Mental Health Advocacy) — 1300 947 820
- 3.Victims of Crime Helpline — 1800 819 817
- 4.Police Accountability Project — policeaccountability.org.au
- 5.Law Institute of Victoria — free 30-minute referral consultation
- 6.Community Legal Centres — clc.net.au (find your nearest)