Media Releases

In examining certain police conduct in managing information from human sources, The Hon Murray Kellam AO QC concluded that Victoria Police had failed to act in accordance with appropriate policies and guidelines. 

Mr Kellam further found that Victoria Police failings had the potential to have adversely affected the administration of justice in Victoria. He did not, however, find that any unlawful behaviour had occurred.

Mr Kellam’s confidential report, containing 16 recommendations, has been handed to the Acting Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police. Copies of the report are being provided to the Minister for Police, The Hon Wade Noonan MP, and the Victorian Inspectorate.

One recommendation is for Victoria Police to provide a copy of the report to the Director of Public Prosecutions to consider if the matters contained therein have had an adverse effect on any prosecution of any person conducted by the Office of Public Prosecutions.

IBAC has determined that the report will not be released publicly, as it:

• would potentially breach an injunction obtained by the Chief Commissioner of Victoria Police from the Supreme Court in relation to a human source 
• would reveal details of the internal management of human sources by Victoria Police
• could increase risks to the safety and wellbeing of individuals providing information to Victoria Police. 

IBAC Commissioner Stephen O’Bryan QC expressed his appreciation for the significant time and effort Mr Kellam had devoted to the matter. He said IBAC would be monitoring the response of Victoria Police to Mr Kellam’s recommendations.

Mr O’Bryan appointed Mr Kellam in July 2014 to conduct the inquiry. More than 5500 documents were examined during the course of the inquiry and 14 witnesses gave sworn evidence.