Goulburn Murray Water has taken a number of steps to address the Victorian Ombudsman's recommendations following an investigation into improper conduct.
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In her recommendations report, Ombudsman Deborah Glass said the new chair of the water corporation, Diane James, had "led a program of activities to give effect to my recommendations".
In 2018, Ms Glass found allegations that former managing director Patrick Lennon claimed expenses he was not owed were substantiated, and former chair Joanne Anderson had enabled this.
She made three recommendations to the GMW board, all of which were accepted.
In her new report, Ms Glass said GMW had strengthened its person expenses policies, improved financial controls, delegations and oversight, and conducting an audit.
"These steps were completed within 12 months of my investigation being finalised," Ms Glass said.
"Notably, the board addressed further issues raised in my report such as updating its hospitality policy, ceasing to provide board dinners and alcohol, and requiring all incoming directors and general managers to confirm they have received and understand the Director's Code of Conduct and GMW's policies for expense reimbursement."
Ms Glass said the Department of Land, Environment, Water and Planning had monitored the water corporation's implementation of the recommendations.
In response to one of her recommendations, the department finalised a model policy on gifts, benefits and hospitality, which public agencies within the portfolio were asked to adopt.
The department's secretary also wrote to each of the state's water entities, asking them to update their policies.
Ms Glass noted the Victorian Public Sector Commission had published a handbook for executives, and piloted a workshop on integrity and governance.
"GMW, DELWP and the VPSC have kept me updated of their progress to implement my recommendations and I hope their collective efforts result in better awareness of, and compliance with, the standards we expect of employees in the public sector," she said.
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Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
