The Public Interest Disclosures Act 2010 (the PID Act) replaced the Whistle Blowers Act 1994. The PID Act aims to ensure that government is open and accountable by providing protection for those who speak out about wrongdoing or in other words, make a public interest disclosure (PID). Making a public interest disclosure is sometimes referred to as ‘whistleblowing'.Reporting suspected wrongdoing is vital to the integrity of the Queensland public sector.

What is Public Interest Disclosure?

A Public Interest Disclosure (PID) is a report of suspected wrongdoing or danger. For an allegation, to be considered a PID and attract the protections under the Public Interest Disclosures Act 2010, it must be:Public interest information about substantial and specific wrongdoing or dangerAn appropriate disclosureMade to the proper authority.

What can a PID be about?

Any person, including public sector officers, may disclose information about:A substantial and specific danger to the health or safety of a person with a disabilityA substantial and specific danger to the environment (as set out in the PID Act)Reprisal action following a PID.

A public sector officer may also disclose information about:

• Corrupt conduct by another person
• Maladministration that adversely affects someone's interest in a substantial and specific way
  
• A substantial misuse of public resources
• A substantial and specific danger to public health or safety
• A substantial and specific danger to the environment.

What is a reprisal?

Reprisal occurs if a person causes or attempts to cause detriment to you because they believe you:Have made, or intend to make a PID; orHave participated in, or intend to participate in procedures under the PID Act.

What is the NASC PIP policy and Procedure