A new Public Interest Disclosures Act (PID Act) came into effect on 1 October in New South Wales.

The PID Act provides a framework for how staff in public sector organisations, including universities, can report their concerns if they become aware of serious wrongdoing. It aims to encourage a strong ‘speak up’ culture and give staff confidence that it is safe to act in the public interest by reporting wrongdoing.

At Macquarie, we are committed to the highest standards in governance, ethical behaviour and accountable conduct, and recognise the important role our staff play in promoting an ethical, accountable culture and the integrity of administrative and management practices.

All staff and leaders of the University have a responsibility to act in the public interest and are encouraged to speak up when they become aware of serious wrongdoing or suspected wrongdoing at the University.

The process for reporting a public interest disclosures is outlined in our Reporting Wrongdoing – Public Interest Disclosures Policy, which we are currently updating to reflect the new legislation. We will also be launching new training for managers so that they are aware of their obligations under the new PID Act and can identify and deal with a public interest disclosures appropriately.

You can read about the new PID Act here.