Operation Watts was the first joint investigation conducted by IBAC and the Victorian Ombudsman. It scrutinised how branch stacking in the Victorian branch of the Australian Labor Party (ALP) resulted in the alleged misuse of public funds for party political purposes, and subversion of parliamentary standards and processes. This report sets out the steps taken...

The purpose of this report is to educate and inform public sector organisations and the Victorian community about conduct risks, and to share lessons about how these risks can be reduced.

Victoria’s integrity agencies have come together to present an evidence-based paper outlining the need for greater budgetary independence. This joint paper sets out a case to further strengthen the perceived and actual independence of these three officers of Parliament.

This joint investigation, conducted by IBAC and the Victorian Ombudsman, was initiated following allegations of serious corrupt conduct involving Victorian public officers, including Members of Parliament. The joint investigation examined a range of matters, including allegations of misuse of electorate offices, ministerial office staff and resources for 'branch stacking' and other party-related activities.

This investigation focused on the Victorian Department of Health’s decision-making processes and use of discretion under the Victorian Border Crossing Permit Directions. It was relevant to consider the timeline leading to the designation of NSW and the ACT as an ‘extreme risk zone’ and more broadly, the authority to close Victoria’s border.