Whistleblowing on Environmental Harm in Australia
This factsheet outlines what whistleblowing is, potential alternatives to whistleblowing, protections for whistleblowers and protections for environmental harm.
Summary
Key takeaways
- Whistleblowing is where a person discloses information about the wrongdoing of an individual, group or corporation.
- Whistleblowing is generally authorised by public interest disclosure (PID) laws; however, there are no uniform whistleblowing laws across Australia so there may be instances where it is unlawful.
- All jurisdictions, except for NSW and the Northern Territory, expressly provide for public interest disclosures to be made regarding conduct causing direct environmental harm.
Key actions
Since the laws on whistleblowing are complex, EDO recommends that you seek independent legal advice before making any public disclosures, even if you are feeling impatient and frustrated.
