Customs and Border Protection Media Release

Strengthened integrity arrangements for Customs and Border Protection - 13 October 2010

Customs and Border Protection Chief Executive Officer, Michael Carmody, today welcomed the government’s announcement to expand the jurisdiction of the Australian Commission for Law Enforcement Integrity (ACLEI).

From early next year, ACLEI will be able to investigate allegations of corrupt conduct relating to the law enforcement functions of Customs and Border Protection officers.

“This new measure recognises the law enforcement role Customs and Border Protection officers play in safeguarding our borders, and the inherent corruption risk associated with this role,” Mr Carmody said.

“Given the seriousness of the duties that we perform, Customs and Border Protection will benefit from having a level of external involvement to investigate corruption allegations.”

The announcement follows a Parliamentary Joint Committee inquiry which examined the operation of the Law Enforcement Commissioner Act 2006. The Committee recommended that Customs and Border Protection be brought under ACLEI’s jurisdiction to provide greater protections against corruption.

“I am pleased the government has accepted the Committee’s recommendation to further strengthen the integrity of Customs and Border Protection’s operations,” Mr Carmody said.

“There is no evidence to suggest systemic corruption within the agency, however, given our role at the border it is not surprising that there are criminal syndicates and individuals who may seek to compromise our officers or gain employment.”

Customs and Border Protection has already implemented a Fraud Control and Corruption Prevention Methodology to foster an environment that is resistant to criminal infiltration and corruption. The agency also works closely with the Australian Federal Police in conducting internal investigations.

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