Nick Xenophon (SA, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

Could I get clarification from the minister in terms of the existing regime that applies to the protection of whistleblowers? I think the minister said in her explanation on the opposition to the ALP's amendments in relation to this that there was a system in place where you look at the issue of purpose, or the intent, of a whistleblower. The issue I have with that is how you gauge that intent, and whether you also look at the effects of the information that was conveyed and whether it was usefully acted upon. For example, you might have a person who may not have the best of motives, but the information they provide is useful in exposing a rort or malfeasance in this space. I am trying to understand what protections there are at the moment, and why this would not strengthen that. I am trying to understand what the government's position is in respect of this.