The NACC is refusing to release its investigation into millions of dollars in Meals on Wheels contracts, instead telling the whistleblower she is confused about the outcome.
The National Anti-Corruption Commission completed an investigation into almost $9 million worth of federal government contracts to a private consulting firm that tore apart Meals on Wheels services, but when asked for the required public report changed its mind and gaslit the woman who referred the matter.
Under the NACC Act, a completed investigation automatically triggers section 149 of the legislation, which mandates the production of a report outlining its investigation, the steps taken, the evidence assessed and either what corrupt conduct was found or, if none was found, recommendations about the failure to find such conduct.
In some circumstances, this report must be tabled in parliament. The NACC can also publish it online or provide it to people who made the original referral, although the accountability body maintains complete discretion on this score.
On July 17, NACC deputy commissioner Ben Gauntlett – who was involved in the original handling of the robodebt referrals from the royal commission that were aborted and then forced to be reopened – wrote to the woman who referred a complaint about the management of the so-called Future Fit Program that sought to “modernise” Meals on Wheels services in preparation for controversial aged care reforms.
“The purpose of this letter is to inform you...
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