Whistleblowers play an important role in our democracy by speaking up for truth and accountability. Unfortunately, our weak laws mean many people who blow the whistle face reprisals for doing so.

This was the case for Richard Boyle, who is facing jail time for exposing wrongdoing at the tax office.

Earlier this month, in the District Court in Adelaide, Commonwealth prosecutors dropped five charges against Richard. While this is good news for Richard and his family, he will still face criminal trial in November for 19 other charges.

When whistleblowers are silenced, wrongdoing, misconduct and corruption remains hidden.

We started the Whistleblower Project to advocate for stronger laws so whistleblowers like Richard no longer face unjust retaliation for speaking out when they witness wrongdoing.

In recent years, too many Australian whistleblowers have lost their jobs, faced lawsuits or prosecution for speaking up in the public interest.

Last month, the Whistleblower Protection Authority Bill was introduced to Federal Parliament by crossbench MPs and Senators. The Bill would establish a body to oversee and enforce whistleblower protections, facilitate whistleblower disclosures, and safeguard whistleblowers who expose corruption and wrongdoing.

The bill was based on recommended principles and policy advice for a whistleblower protection authority we developed with Transparency International Australia and Griffith University.

This Bill is a pivotal opportunity for the Albanese Government to ensure comprehensive support for whistleblowers. 

The Human Rights Law Centre will continue to speak up for whistleblowers and provide expert legal advice and representation through our Whistleblower Project. We will continue to help our clients expose wrongdoing and ensure accountability.