The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has heard further evidence during its public inquiry into governance at the University of Wollongong (UOW), with former Chief Governance Officer Alyssa White acknowledging that several recruitment processes did not comply with the university's established hiring policies. Her evidence was presented during the second day of public hearings.
During questioning, White accepted that some applicants received additional assistance throughout recruitment processes, including guidance with applications, interview preparation and other aspects of the selection process. She agreed these actions affected the fairness and transparency expected during recruitment.
The inquiry is examining whether recruitment practices within the University's Governance and Policy Division consistently followed approved procedures. It is also reviewing governance arrangements, consultancy engagements and the management of potential conflicts of interest involving senior university officials.
Evidence presented during the hearings included communications and documents relating to the recruitment of several former professional colleagues. White acknowledged encouraging some individuals to apply for positions at UOW and providing support during parts of the recruitment process. She accepted that, in some instances, these actions did not align with the university's recruitment standards.
White also acknowledged mistakes in how several recruitment processes were managed. She told the inquiry her intention was to strengthen the university's governance capability by attracting experienced professionals with relevant expertise, although she accepted the procedures used were not always appropriate.
Earlier hearings considered whether some applicants received advantages, including assistance with position descriptions, résumé preparation, interview preparation and application guidance before vacancies were formally advertised. The inquiry is examining whether these recruitment practices complied with governance requirements. The public inquiry remains ongoing, and no final findings have been made.
The University of Wollongong has been reviewing its governance and recruitment practices following concerns raised about recruitment procedures, consultancy arrangements and conflict-of-interest management. The public hearings form part of Operation Scandi, an ICAC investigation examining governance processes within the university.
ICAC will continue hearing evidence from additional witnesses before considering all information presented. At the conclusion of the inquiry, the Commission may publish findings and recommendations. The hearings are investigative in nature and do not determine criminal liability.
The proceedings have attracted attention across Australia's higher education sector, highlighting the importance of transparent recruitment, sound governance and effective conflict-of-interest management. Universities and public institutions are expected to maintain recruitment processes that are fair, transparent and consistent with established policies, and the inquiry continues to examine whether those expectations were met.
