The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption's ongoing Operation Scandi inquiry into governance and conflict-of-interest issues at the University of Wollongong heard evidence from academic Lucinda Wright regarding her understanding of the university's conflict-of-interest requirements.
During proceedings, Wright reportedly told the commission that she had not read the university's conflict-of-interest policy, a disclosure that formed part of broader questioning into governance practices and decision-making processes within the institution.
The public inquiry is examining allegations relating to recruitment processes, consultancy contracts and the management of potential conflicts of interest involving senior university figures and external consultants. ICAC has stressed that the matters remain allegations under investigation and no findings of corrupt conduct have been made.
Operation Scandi commenced on 22 June and is expected to run for approximately three weeks in Sydney. The inquiry is investigating whether university officials improperly influenced recruitment decisions, consultancy arrangements and conflict-of-interest management procedures.
One area under examination concerns the appointment of former interim vice-chancellor John Dewar and consultancy work undertaken by Korda Mentha. Other aspects involve consultancy contracts awarded to Aspirall Consulting International and governance recruitment processes.
The inquiry follows months of scrutiny of governance practices at the university, including concerns raised during a NSW parliamentary inquiry and subsequent investigations by ICAC. University Chancellor Michael Still previously stood aside pending the outcome of the inquiry.
ICAC's role is to gather evidence and determine whether corrupt conduct may have occurred under the relevant legislation. The commission has not made any findings against Wright or other witnesses appearing before the inquiry.
