UPDATE: Disturbing allegations of corruption involving the Australian government’s offshore detention regime in Nauru are set to be referred to the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC). New evidence suggests that bikie gangs, specifically the Finks, have infiltrated critical border security operations, raising urgent questions about taxpayer-funded contracts.
The revelations, stemming from an investigation by this masthead and 60 Minutes, indicate that the Finks secured a major contract to provide security for former immigration detainees slated for deportation from Australia. This alarming report emerged just days ago, with implications that Australian taxpayers may have unwittingly funded unnecessary services to sustain the offshore detention regime.
On Monday, a high-ranking official from the Home Affairs Department risked their career to allege that millions of dollars had been spent on nonexistent asylum seeker services. David Shoebridge, the Greens Immigration Spokesman, stated, “When you have a system as rotten as offshore detention, it’s no surprise that bikies are the only ones willing to work there.” He emphasized the need for accountability, asserting that both the Liberal and Labor governments have perpetuated a culture of corruption through extreme secrecy.
The Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit Chair, Josh Burns, echoed these concerns, stressing the importance of rigorous standards for government contracts. “If there are concerns about who those contracts are awarded to, then that needs to be investigated fully,” he said. Burns underscored that public funds should not support bikie income.
Former Australian soldier Oisin Donohoe, who has firsthand knowledge of the security operations on Nauru, reported that Finks gang members, led by international president Ali Bilal, are actively involved in managing the so-called NZYQ cohort.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese responded to the allegations, noting that the issues raised relate to a time before his government took office. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke declined to comment in detail but expressed confidence in the relevant agencies. Anonymous government sources indicated that allegations of rorting connected to Australian contracts in Nauru were linked to agreements established under the previous Morrison government.
Opposition home affairs spokesman Jonno Duniam highlighted the significance of the Richardson Review, which examined integrity concerns related to these contracts. He called on Burke to clarify whether the review’s recommendations have been implemented.
The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre chief executive Kon Karapanagiotidis condemned the revelations, labeling the alleged “dodgy deals” as shocking. Independent MP Monique Ryan praised whistleblowers for exposing the troubling practices surrounding the management of offshore processing and the multi-billion dollar deal with Nauru. She demanded transparency regarding agreements with other nations for offshore housing of asylum seekers, emphasizing the need for responsible and ethical spending of taxpayer money.
As these allegations unfold, the call for an investigation into the integrity of Australia’s offshore detention system is gaining momentum. The NACC’s involvement may be crucial in addressing these serious accusations of corruption and ensuring accountability.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as it continues to unfold, highlighting the urgent need for transparency and reform in Australia’s immigration and border security practices.
