Australia’s leading democracy research institute invites you to join us as we explore the inner workings of politics, policy and public integrity. With a commit...
Unpacking Accountability with the former Clerk of the Victorian Parliament
Join Dr Catherine Williams, Executive Director of the Centre for Public Integrity, as she sits down with Andrew Young, former Clerk of the Victorian Parliament and a key member of Deakin University’s Parliamentary Research Unit. In this episode, Andrew demystifies the process of orders for production of documents—a crucial parliamentary tool that compels the government to release withheld information. He explains how these orders underpin the accountability and transparency necessary for effective lawmaking, while highlighting the alarming decline in compliance and the contentious use of public interest immunity claims. Drawing on comparisons between Victoria and New South Wales, Andrew reveals why independent adjudication is vital to ensure governments cannot simply act as their own arbiters. Tune in for a deep dive into a seemingly esoteric issue that strikes at the very heart of responsible government.
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24:22
Geoffrey Watson: life, career and the importance of integrity
In this candid interview, founding board director Geoffrey Watson, SC, takes us on his remarkable journey—from being inspired by “To Kill a Mockingbird” to becoming a leading anti-corruption crusader. A former counsel assisting the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption and a teaching fellow at UNSW, Geoffrey reveals the gritty realities of exposing deep-seated corruption, the personal toll of his work, and the insights that have shaped his career in the pursuit of public integrity. Join Quentin Dempster as he delves into Geoffrey’s experiences, the challenges of defending the public interest, and why the fight for accountability remains more crucial than ever.
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25:31
Kate Chaney MP: Reimagining representation
In this compelling episode, former Federal Court judge Michael Barker KC sits down with Kate Chaney, MP for Curtin, to explore the evolving landscape of Australian democracy. Kate shares her unexpected journey—from a diverse career outside politics to a historic, reluctant run as an independent in a traditionally Liberal seat—to champion long-term thinking, integrity, and community-driven change. Together, they discuss the challenges of the current system, rebuilding trust in our institutions, and creating a political system that truly reflects the values of its people. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that redefines what it means to represent and revitalize our democracy.
Australia’s leading democracy research institute invites you to join us as we explore the inner workings of politics, policy and public integrity. With a commitment to elevating public discourse, this new series offers three distinct perspectives:Decision Makers: The Hon Michael Barker KC interviews parliamentarians, revealing the challenges, successes and outstanding issues that they have encountered.In the Weeds: Executive Director, Dr Catherine Williams, unpacks the nuances of policy design with leading experts.The Centre: Quentin Dempster AM delves into the personal journeys of our experts, sharing the stories that inspired their commitment to transparency and accountability.
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