The Office of the Inspector of the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission is an independent body overseeing the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission ('LECC'), which handles complaints about misconduct and maladministration by the NSW Police Force and the NSW Crime Commission. The Inspector of the LECC ensures the LECC and its officers act appropriately. If you have concerns about the LECC’s conduct, you can make a complaint to the Inspector, who can investigate and provide reports and recommendations on any agency maladministration or misconduct.
What types of complaints can you make?
Maladministration
Complaints can be made about maladministration on the part of the LECC and/or its officers, including:
- Unlawful Conduct: Acting against legal duties.
- Unreasonable, Unjust, Oppressive, or Improperly Discriminatory Conduct: Decisions causing unfair impact.
- Improper Motives: Actions taken without proper reasons.
- Irrelevant Considerations: Decisions influenced by irrelevant factors.
- Mistakes of Law or Fact: Errors in interpreting laws or facts.
- Failure to Give Reasons: Not explaining decision-making processes.
Misconduct
Complaints can be made about misconduct by officers of the LECC, including:
- Criminal Offences: Actions like theft or assault.
- Corrupt Conduct: Engaging in dishonest or fraudulent behaviour.
- Disciplinary Actions: Violations of internal policies.
Jurisdiction:
The Office of the Inspector of the LECC has powers to hear complaints under NSW law.
Geographical Scope:
Complaints can be made about the conduct of the LECC regardless of where it occurs.
Time Limitations:
There are no time limits for making a complaint.
Exclusions:
The Inspector cannot investigate complaints about other police agencies, NSW Police Force, or NSW Crime Commission.
Exercise of Discretion:
The Inspector is not required to investigate every complaint and may consider the seriousness and impact when deciding.
Who can you make a complaint against?
You can make a complaint against:
- Officers of the LECC
- The LECC: You can make complaints about the conduct of the LECC as an agency
Exclusions:
The Inspector cannot deal with complaints against other public authorities or officials.
Are you eligible to make a complaint?
Who can complain?
Anyone, including public officials, can make a complaint.
Before you lodge a complaint:
No steps are needed to be made before lodging a complaint.
Complaints on Someone Else's Behalf:
Complaints can be made on behalf of someone with their consent.
Exclusions:
Complaints must relate to the LECC or its officers, not other law enforcement agencies.
What can this body do to help?
This body may provide:
- Investigations, Reports, and Recommendations: Investigate serious or systemic issues and make recommendations.
- Referral to Other Agencies: Pass the matter on to other agencies.
- Recommend Disciplinary Action or Prosecution: Suggest actions against officers for misconduct.
- Inquiries: Conduct investigations into matters of public importance.
Additional Information:
Complaints will be notified of outcomes via email or letter.
How to prepare your complaint
Format:
Complaints must be in writing. Assistance available for non-English speakers or those with impairments.
Personal Details:
Complaints can be anonymous but providing details can aid investigation.
Respondent’s Details:
Specify the relevant LECC officer or the agency.
Relevant Facts:
Provide specific details, supporting documents, and actions taken.
What NOT to Include:
Avoid false or misleading statements.
Additional Information:
If the Inspector acts on your complaint, details may be shared with relevant authorities.
Lodging your complaint and next steps:
Where to lodge your complaint:
You can make a complaint via:
- The online form: Online OILECC Complaint Form
- Email: oilecc_executive@oilecc.nsw.gov.au
- Post: Inspector of the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission GPO Box 5341 Sydney NSW 2001
- Telephone: (02) 9228 3023
Receipt/Acknowledgement:
Complaints are acknowledged within 5 business days.
Assessment/Investigation:
The Inspector assesses the complaint and may request additional information. Investigations may result in reports or recommendations.
Final Decision:
Timeframes vary based on complexity. Complainants will be notified of decisions by email or letter.
Additional Information:
Provide all relevant information upfront and keep a copy of your complaint for reference.
More information:
Refer to the factsheet provided below for more information.
