How a $400K job exposed conflicts of interest at University of Wollongong – 11 July 2026
A NSW ICAC inquiry examined allegations of governance failures, recruitment concerns and possible conflicts of interest involving senior University of Wollongong figures and consultancy arrangements.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-07-11/uow-job-that-triggered-icac-probe/106902420
Young Indonesians fear for future after startup founder jailed – 11 July 2026
The jailing of Gojek co-founder and former Indonesian education minister Nadiem Makarim on corruption charges has shocked Indonesia’s technology sector, with many entrepreneurs and investors fearing it could discourage innovation and public service. Critics argue the case risks undermining confidence in Indonesia’s legal system and deterring business leaders from entering government, while authorities maintain the conviction was based on corruption in a school laptop procurement program.
Former assistant tax commissioner Nick Petroulias charged with fraud offences – 15 July 2026
Former ATO assistant commissioner Nick Petroulias has been charged with multiple fraud offences, including allegations of obtaining financial advantage by deception and using false documents. The charges follow a long-running ICAC investigation into property dealings.
Darwin tobacconist avoids jail after being busted with 110,000 illegal cigarettes – 15 July 2026
A Darwin tobacconist received a 14-month wholly suspended prison sentence after pleading guilty to possessing 110,000 illegal cigarettes and 336kg of illicit tobacco, which would have avoided more than $770,000 in Commonwealth tobacco excise. The court described the offence as serious, noting that illicit tobacco trade is often linked to organised crime and undermines Australia’s tax system.
Councillor says Cairns ‘deserves apology’ after mayor admits third case of misconduct – 15 July 2026
Cairns Mayor Amy Eden admitted misconduct for failing to declare a conflict of interest in a council decision. The finding follows previous misconduct over leaking confidential information, prompting calls for greater accountability and transparency.
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-07-15/cairns-mayor-amy-eden-misconduct-admissions/106919746
Barrister who allegedly accused judges of ‘conspiracy’ fights misconduct charges – 16 July 2026
A New Zealand barrister is contesting professional misconduct charges arising from allegations that he repeatedly accused judges and members of the judiciary of being involved in a conspiracy against him. The disciplinary hearing heard claims that he made unfounded and inflammatory allegations in court documents and correspondence, which the Law Society argues undermined public confidence in the justice system. The barrister denies the allegations amount to misconduct and is defending his actions before the disciplinary tribunal.
Aldi settles ‘start shift early’ underpayments claim for $55m – 16 July 2026
ALDI has agreed to pay $55 million to settle a class action alleging thousands of current and former workers were underpaid for unpaid work performed before and after their rostered shifts. While ALDI denies wrongdoing, the settlement covers about 32,000 employees and resolves the long-running Federal Court proceedings.
Employees left ‘traumatised’ after CFMEU members stormed government building, inquiry hears – 16 July 2026
Evidence at the Queensland CFMEU inquiry revealed that employees at the Department of Transport and Main Roads were left “traumatised” after about 200 union members forced their way into a Brisbane government building during a 2022 protest. Witnesses described staff hiding in offices, feeling intimidated, and fearing for their safety as the inquiry continued examining allegations of union misconduct and intimidation.
ASIC looks to force Sydney financial planner Capital Guard into liquidation over missing $17.4 million of investor funds – 16 July 2026
ASIC has applied to place Sydney financial planning firm Capital Guard into liquidation after raising concerns that $17.4 million of investor funds is missing. The regulator alleges the company failed to properly account for client money and is seeking court-appointed liquidators to investigate the whereabouts of the funds and protect investors.
Top barrister ‘unfit to practice’ over junior lawyer sex case – 17 July 2026
A senior South Australian barrister has been found to have engaged in inappropriate and non-consensual conduct towards a junior lawyer. A disciplinary tribunal found the behaviour justified a finding that he was unfit to practise.
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Judicial watchdog directs County Court judge towards counselling after ‘unfair and inappropriate’ comments – 17 July 2026
A Victorian judge has been counselled and directed to undertake training after a judicial watchdog found she made inappropriate and discourteous comments to a barrister in front of the barrister’s client. The Judicial Commission concluded the judge’s conduct fell below expected standards but did not amount to misconduct warranting stronger disciplinary action.
Corporate Travel’s legal chief quits as accounts deadline looms – 17 July 2026
Corporate Travel Management (CTM) is facing a governance crisis after its company secretary resigned, with no immediate replacement stepping forward. The departure adds to pressure on the company as it deals with an ongoing accounting scandal involving alleged overcharging of UK clients, financial reporting issues, and a prolonged suspension of its shares.
Canberrans’ ‘valuable’ healthcare data leaked in GP clinics’ data breaches – 17 July 2026
A cyber attack on Partnered Health GP clinics has exposed the personal and medical information of thousands of patients, including people in Canberra. The breach affected multiple clinics, with hackers accessing sensitive data such as medical records, Medicare details, contact information, consultation notes and pathology results. The company is working with cyber authorities and has obtained court orders to prevent misuse of the stolen information.
