Public Interest Disclosures
A ‘Public Interest Disclosure’ is a way to report suspected wrongdoing in the public sector.
The Public Interest Disclosure (PID) Act 2018 (‘the Act’) helps people report concerns about:
- Corruption
- Misconduct
- Maladministration
- Serious risks to public health
- Serious risks to the environment
The Act also provides protections for people who make disclosures in accordance with the legislation.
Types of Public Interest Disclosures
Public Interest Disclosures are grouped into two categories under the Act.
If you're unsure which category applies, you can still submit a disclosure. Council will assess the information provided and ensure the appropriate category has been selected.
- Environmental and Health Information Environmental and Health Information
- Public Administration Information Public Administration Information
This category relates to serious risks to:
- The environment
- Public health
- Public safety
Examples may include pollution incidents, environmental damage, or activities that pose a serious risk to the health or safety of the community.
Anyone can make this type of disclosure.
To receive the protections available under the Act, you must reasonably believe the information is true, or that it may be true and is serious enough to be investigated.
This category relates to suspected:
- Corruption
- Misconduct
- Maladministration
Examples may include improper conduct by a public officer, misuse of public resources, or a failure to properly perform official duties.
Anyone can make a disclosure.
However, only public officers are eligible for the protections provided under the Act for this type of disclosure.
What cannot be reported through a Public Interest Disclosure?
A Public Interest Disclosure is not the appropriate process for:
- Customer service complaints
- Requests for Council services
- General feedback
- Neighbour disputes
- Parking expiation reviews
- Development application enquiries
These matters should be submitted through the relevant Council process.
Refer back to our Feedback and Complaints page for more information.
Who can receive a disclosure?
To receive the protections available under the Act, disclosures must be made to a relevant authority.
For concerns involving City of Prospect, disclosures can be made to Council's Responsible Officer.
You can also view the list of relevant authorities.
How am I protected?
If your disclosure meets the requirements of the Act, you may be protected from:
- Disciplinary action
- Dismissal
- Civil liability
- Criminal liability
The Act also protects people from reprisals for making a disclosure.
Ready to make a disclosure?
If you believe your concern falls within the scope of the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2018, you can submit a disclosure using the link below:
Contact us
If you have any questions about making a Public Interest Disclosure, you can call 8269 5355 and ask to speak with our Governance team, or email admin@prospect.sa.gov.au.