abc.net.au/news/national-anti-corruption-commission-passes-senate/101711668The Albanese government is one step closer to fulfilling its election promise to establish a National Anti-Corruption Commission , after the Senate passed Labor's bill with amendments by the Greens.
However, the Greens and other crossbenchers were unsuccessful in their attempt to amend the legislation to remove the "exceptional circumstances" clause for public hearings, and require the government of the day to gain the support of at least one non-government member on the NACC oversight committee to approve the appointment of a commissioner or inspector.
The Greens wanted a "simple majority" of members to agree to an appointment to ensure future governments would not have total control over appointments, but the amendment was opposed by the government and Coalition.
Huge pity 'exceptional circumstances' for open hearings. Initially felt it was fair, given potential smear of innocents. But digging down, now believe far better to bring everything out into the open. Suppressed IBAC investigations prevented informed voting in Sat's state poll.