Policies and Factsheets

This policy sets out the way the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission (IPSC) will manage certain types of complaints – specifically complaints that the investigating Commissioner considers to be vexatious, frivolous, misconceived, lacking in substance or not made in good faith.

A summary of the complaints process, who can make a complaint, and what kind of complaints can be made to the IPSC.

A summary of the process when a complaint is received to determine whether the IPSC will investigate.

Confidentiality of complaints made to the IPSC and of IPSC investigations is protected in a number of ways.

If an IPSC decision-maker determines that a respondent has engaged in relevant conduct (that is breached the conduct requirements) they may determine to impose or recommend a sanction.

During an IPSC investigation you are able to engage a legal practitioner to provide you with advice.

A support person can be a colleague, family member, professional, friend, union representative, or other individual.

The PWSS Act provides for internal review of decisions made by the IPSC. A review panel of three Commissioners will be constituted to consider any review application made.

An application for internal review must be made within 28 days after receipt of the final report, unless an extension is provided.

The Parliamentary Workplace Support Service (PWSS) can provide you with advice on how to deal with conduct issues relating to your staff.

Commissioners and staff of the IPSC are subject to statutory confidentiality obligations regarding information obtained in the course of undertaking their duties. A breach is enforceable as an offence.