In my role as Chair of the Parliamentary Crime and Corruption Committee (the committee in QLD Parliament that oversees the Crime and Corruption Commission), in December I tabled a report outlining findings made by the committee following its inquiry into the CCC’s investigation of several former Logan City Councillors who were charged and suspended from office, only to have these charges discontinued two years later.

Serious findings were made (on a bipartisan basis, without any dissent), including that the CCC failed to always act impartially and independently, and that the CCC Chairperson failed to ensure this occurred. The CCC has a vital role to play combatting major crime and corruption, and they have been entrusted with extraordinary powers to do that – including to compel people to give evidence, under threat of imprisonment if they don’t talk. Public confidence and trust in the CCC relies on the CCC always being, and being seen to be, impartial and independent – it could be argued that if this is lacking in one matter, what about other investigations? The serious findings and recommendations of the committee reflect that this situation is unsatisfactory and must be fixed. The inquiry into the CCC’s powers and structure (in which Mr Tony Fitzgerald will act as a commissioner) was recommended by the committee. It is my hope it makes recommendations that enhance public confidence in the CCC all-round. 

Since the tabling of this report, a stream of integrity issues has arisen within the QLD Government – including allegations of cover-ups, deletion of public records and culture of retribution against officials seeking to do the right thing – and I support calls for a wide-ranging inquiry into the state of government in Queensland. If things can go awry within our leading integrity body, there is no doubt that integrity issues within the Queensland Government need to have a light shone on them. Only a wide-ranging commission of inquiry will bring this about. 

QUEENSLAND YOUTH PARLIAMENT
In the past, we have been very fortunate to have some wonderful Youth Parliamentarians representing our electorate and I am eager for this to occur again this year. The Queensland Youth Parliament (QYP) is for anyone aged 15-25 with a passion for their local community and an interest in the parliamentary process. Members of the QYP learn about the parliamentary debate, Bill writing and much more. All that’s needed is enthusiasm, and participants are taught everything they need to know. 
Nominations are now open and close on 20 February. There are limited positions in the QYP and nominees are encouraged to continue applying if they are unsuccessful this round. For more information, or to nominate visit: ymcaqyp.org.au

GET READY FOR THE GCBF SUPER ROUND 
From this year, there will be changes to the Gambling Community Benefit Fund grants. There will be four funding rounds each year, with three of these rounds having funding available up to $35,000 and one super round (GCBF Round 113) with up to $100,000 of funding available.

If your organisation plans to apply in the super round, you should carefully consider the 1-round exclusion period. If your organisation’s grant has been successful in previous rounds, it may be ineligible to apply in the super round. 

To apply for the program visit: www.justice.qld.gov.au/grants or for more information contact Jon Krause’s office via email scenicrim@parliament.qld.gov.au or phone (07) 5515 1100.

If you have an issue that you think should be fixed, I encourage you to contact my office, toll-free on 1800 813 960, so I can lobby on your behalf in Brisbane.