Media Releases

IBAC's Operation Sandon public hearings conclude for 2020

IBAC public hearings into allegations of serious corrupt conduct in relation to planning and property development decisions at the Casey City Council have concluded for 2020.

Public hearings by Victoria's independent anti-corruption agency into allegations of serious corrupt conduct in relation to planning and property development decisions at Casey City Council have concluded for the year.

The hearings are part of the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission's (IBAC) Operation Sandon, an active investigation into allegations of corrupt conduct involving councillors and property developers in the City of Casey. It is also examining the adequacy of Victoria's current systems and controls for safeguarding the integrity of the state's planning processes.

The public hearings held over 45 days included evidence from 26 witnesses and 357 exhibits were tendered.

The hearings have included evidence from five specialist witnesses on ways in which policies, systems and practices could be improved to prevent corruption risks in Victoria related to planning and other matters where decision-making by local and state government can be distorted by undue influence, privileged access and conflicts of interest.

The issues canvassed in the hearings with the specialist witnesses were informed by a public consultation process. In response to a call for input from the public and community stakeholders, IBAC received more than 60 suggested questions related to issues exposed by Operation Sandon. The issues raised will be considered as part of IBAC's strategic research and policy work to inform the future-focused findings and recommendations arising from Operation Sandon.

Operation Sandon is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with credible information relevant to the investigation is encouraged to report it via the IBAC website or phone 1300 735 135.

Upon completion of the investigation, IBAC will provide a special report to Parliament.


Media contact: media@ibac.vic.gov.au or 0427 480 840