Public Interest Disclosure

Gympie Regional Council encourages the reporting of suspected wrongdoing so it can be properly assessed and addressed in the public interest. A Public Interest Disclosure (PID) is a report made under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010 (Qld) about certain types of serious wrongdoing or danger.

What can be a PID?

Any person may report:

  • Substantial and specific danger to a person with a disability
  • Substantial and specific danger to the environment
  • Reprisal (actual or threatened) against someone who has made or may make a PID

Public sector officers (including Council staff or Councillors) may also report:

  • Corrupt conduct
  • Maladministration causing substantial and specific harm
  • Substantial misuse of public resources
  • Significant and substantial danger to public health or safety
  • Significant and substantial danger to the environment 
     

Protections for Disclosers

The PID Act provides protections such as:

  • Protection from reprisal
  • Confidentiality of your identity wherever possible
  • Immunity from liability in certain circumstances
    These protections are part of the standards set by the Queensland Ombudsman

Anonymous PIDs

You may make a PID anonymously. Council will still assess and act on the information, though anonymity may limit our ability to contact you.

How to make a PID

Written disclosures are preferred. Include as much detail as possible.

Email: officeofceo@gympie.qld.gov.au

Post:
Attention: Chief Executive Officer
Gympie Regional Council
PO Box 155, Gympie QLD 4570

In person: Town Hall front counter, 2 Caledonian Hill, Gympie

What happens after you make a PID

Council will:

  1. Acknowledge your disclosure (if contact details provided)
  2. Assess it under the PID Act
  3. Investigate or refer it to another proper authority (e.g. CCC for corrupt conduct)
  4. Manage any reprisal risks and offer support
  5. Provide updates where appropriate

These steps reflect the Ombudsman’s PID management standards.

Other Proper Authorities

You may also make a PID to:

  • Queensland Ombudsman – PID oversight and maladministration
  • Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) – corrupt conduct
    The Ombudsman identifies these bodies as appropriate authorities for PIDs
     

PID Procedure and Related Documents

Read Council’s full procedure here

Need help?

If you’re unsure whether your concern is a PID, contact Council for confidential advice. The Queensland Ombudsman also provides guidance on making a PID.

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