Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013 (federal whistleblower)
Federal public sector whistleblower regime + protections.
Who must comply
Commonwealth agencies + their officials.
What triggers it
Receipt of public interest disclosure.
When due
Acknowledgement within 14 days; investigation per timelines.
Evidence required
Authorised officer register; disclosure register; investigation reports.
Max penalty
Criminal penalties for victimisation + identifying-information disclosure
Summary
Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013 (Cwlth) provides whistleblower protections for Commonwealth public officials. Distinct from corporate whistleblower regime in Part 9.4AAA Corporations Act. Internal disclosure to authorised internal recipient; external escalation in limited circumstances.
Topics
Related obligations
- CWLTHProtective Security Policy Framework (PSPF)Federal entities bound by PSPF — governance, information, personnel + physical security.
- CWLTHComply with corporate whistleblower protections (Part 9.4AAA Corporations Act)Public companies and large proprietary companies must have a whistleblower policy and protect disclosers.
- CWLTHData Availability and Transparency Act 2022Commonwealth data sharing regime — accredited users + entities.
Frequently asked questions
- Who must comply with Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013 (federal whistleblower)?
- Commonwealth agencies + their officials.
- What triggers Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013 (federal whistleblower)?
- Receipt of public interest disclosure.
- When is Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013 (federal whistleblower) due?
- Acknowledgement within 14 days; investigation per timelines.
- What is the maximum penalty for Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013 (federal whistleblower)?
- Criminal penalties for victimisation + identifying-information disclosure
- What evidence is required for Public Interest Disclosure Act 2013 (federal whistleblower)?
- Authorised officer register; disclosure register; investigation reports.
Source: https://www.ombudsman.gov.au/about-us/integrity-of-government. Rules Mate is not a law firm. Always verify against the live regulator source before acting.