NEWS | Democratic Freedoms

By exposing wrongdoing and ensuring accountability, whistleblowers make Australia a better place. But with failing laws and insufficient support, the cost of courage is high for many truth-tellers. Potential whistleblowers are staying silent and we all suffer as a result.

That is why last year we launched the Whistleblower Project  – Australia’s first dedicated legal service to protect and empower whistleblowers. Last week, the Project turned one! 

In our first year, we have made a big impact.

• Over 240 people have approached us for support.

• We have helped 80 whistleblowers, providing legal advice on their rights in exposing wrongdoing.

• We represented almost 30 whistleblowers, assisting them in making or escalating their disclosures or vindicating their rights.

• We secured hundreds of thousands of dollars in settlements for whistleblowers who have suffered retaliation for speaking up.

• We intervened in a landmark test case on the scope of whistleblower protections.

• And we’ve helped dozens of clients safely and lawfully speak to regulators, the media, MPs and Senators or parliamentary committees to expose wrongdoing. 

• Launched our Climate and Environmental Whistleblowing Guide

Our clients have exposed grave human rights abuses, government corruption and corporate misdeeds. Their whistleblowing has sparked front pages and Four Corners investigations; most importantly, it has also led to accountability, justice and change. Just last month, we helped a brave whistleblower expose allegations of data fabrication impacting Indigenous communities in the Voice referendum.

We have also continued our tireless advocacy against the prosecution of whistleblowers and for stronger laws and the establishment of a whistleblower protection authority. We also recently published a guide to help people expose climate and environmental wrongdoing. And we have big plans for the year ahead.

Thanks to our supporters, the Whistleblower Project’s legal service is free.