Paul Scarr (Queensland, Liberal Party) Share this | Hansard source

I rise to actually pay a compliment to Senator Colbeck, Senator O'Neill and Senator Pocock. From my perspective, I think you've done an absolutely outstanding job in relation to examining this very, very disturbing matter. During my career—and I had 25 years in the private sector before coming to this place—I worked very closely with PwC on four continents. I was company secretary and general counsel of a company where PwC was the auditor. I had worked in my office settling accounts with them until two or three in the morning, against terrific time pressures. I am so dismayed by what has come out.

I say to PwC: please reflect on the damage that you have done to your reputation. As Senator Barbara Pocock said, there are 9,000 people working for PwC, and many of them would not have been involved in this matter and the many friends I have at PwC have not been involved in this matter. Put yourself in the position of the young graduate or young accountant who has been there five or six years, burning the midnight oil. They are now in this position where, as Senator Barbara Pocock said, they're going to unjustly suffer the tarnish of this terrible situation.

The second point I want to make is that I think we also have to reflect on the fact that, when something like this happens in the private sector, it makes it hard for us to get up and defend the private sector, its principles and the contribution it makes. What happens is the regulatory pendulum swings hard and can have adverse consequences for everyone in the private sector who is doing the right thing. They all suffer because of those who do the wrong thing. That is a terrible thing.

The third point I make is that this is a very good case illustrating why we need a whistleblower protection authority. The reason I say that is that I am absolutely positive that there would have been people within PwC—and Senator Barbara Pocock, Senator O'Neill and Senator Colbeck are hearing from people all the time—who were very concerned about what was happening but did not know where to turn. Where do you turn when something like this is happening at such a high level? I think it is a very good illustration of why we need a whistleblower protection authority that provides an avenue for people from both the public sector and the private sector to seek some sort of guidance as to where to take their concerns in a confidential manner. These are very difficult situations, especially for young professionals.

In conclusion I really do sincerely compliment Senator Colbeck, Senator O'Neill and Senator Barbara Pocock on the important work they are doing in this regard. More strength to your arm. I seek leave to continue my remarks later.

Leave granted; debate adjourned.