Bribery and Corruption Offences

Bribery and corruption offences are prosecuted under both Victorian and Commonwealth legislation, and which framework applies depends on the conduct alleged.

Under the Criminal Code Act 1995 (Cth), the principal offences include bribing a Commonwealth public official, corrupting benefits to or by a Commonwealth public official, abuse of public office, and foreign bribery. Foreign bribery covers offering, providing, or promising a benefit to a foreign public official – or a related third party – with the intent to influence that official’s conduct to obtain or retain a business advantage.

Under the Crimes Act 1958 (Vic), several interrelated secret commissions provisions apply. These cover the receipt or solicitation of a secret commission by an agent, the giving of such commissions, and the use of false or misleading documents to conceal them.

Victorian law also recognises misconduct in public office as a common law offence, carrying a maximum of 10 years’ imprisonment, where a public officer wilfully misconducts themselves in serious breach of the public’s trust.

When you engage Slades & Parsons, we move immediately to protect your position. We review the prosecution’s case closely, identify procedural weaknesses early, and build a defence strategy tailored to your circumstances.

What you can expect:

• Early Intervention: Proactive guidance from the outset, so you understand your rights and options before the investigation progresses further.
• Thorough Case Preparation: Detailed analysis of financial records, communications, and internal documents to identify the strongest available defences.
• Experienced Courtroom Representation: Skilled advocacy in relevant Victorian and Commonwealth courts, across bail applications, contested hearings, and sentencing.
• Discreet, Outcomes-Focused Defence: A commitment to minimising reputational and financial harm while pursuing the best achievable result.

Where the complexity of a matter requires it, we work closely with forensic accountants and financial specialists to ensure your defence is as well-prepared as possible.

Slades & Parsons has defended clients against serious criminal charges in Victoria and across Australia for over 35 years. Our team is led by LIV Accredited Criminal Law Specialists Anthony Brand, Jasmine Pisasale, and Nick Tehan – a level of recognition held by a small number of criminal lawyers in Victoria, and a mark of the depth of experience we bring to every matter.

Corruption investigations are often lengthy, publicly scrutinised, and capable of causing serious reputational harm well before a charge is laid. We take every step to manage your exposure and ensure you are properly represented throughout – whether your matter involves IBAC, the Australian Federal Police, a secret commissions issue, or related corporate misconduct.

Seek legal advice immediately if you are:

• Under investigation by IBAC or the Victorian Inspectorate in relation to a Victorian public sector corruption matter
• The subject of an Australian Federal Police investigation into a Commonwealth or foreign bribery matter
• Asked to attend a record of interview with police or investigators
• Required to attend a compulsory examination under IBAC’s statutory powers, in which you may be required to answer questions under oath
• Served with a search warrant or a notice to produce documents
• Charged with a bribery, secret commissions, or related misconduct offence

The earlier you engage a lawyer, the more options you have. Early advice helps you avoid inadvertent admissions and begin building your defence before the prosecution’s case is formed. Call (03) 9602 3000 today.