McClelland appointed anti-corruption chief

Robert McClelland, former Labor attorney general and federal court judge, has been named the new boss of the National Anti-Corruption Commission.

McClelland's background and career

McClelland was the country's top law officer in the Rudd government from two thousand seven until two thousand eleven.

Brereton quit after criticism

Paul Brereton, appointed the first commissioner in two thousand twenty-three, quit in May saying criticism of his performance was drawing attention away from the body's purpose. The commission faced criticism for secretive and bungled processes.

“drawing attention away”

Savundra named deputy commissioner

Christopher Savundra, currently executive director of enforcement and compliance at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, has been appointed deputy commissioner alongside McClelland.

Appointments approved unanimously

Attorney General Michelle Rowland said both candidates received unanimous support through an open, competitive and merit-based selection process. The parliamentary joint committee signed off on the appointments.

Terms begin in January twenty twenty-seven

McClelland and Savundra will begin five-year terms on eleven January next year, subject to approval by governor general Sam Mostyn. Independent MP Helen Haines called the reset necessary and timely.