SYNERGY WORKPLACE INVESTIGATIONS · AUSTRALIA

Public interest disclosure support

Independent support through a sensitive process.

We are engaged by organisations to provide practical support and process information to people involved in public interest disclosure matters.

Discuss your matter

Speak with our team · 1300 664 341

A CLEAR PATH FORWARD

Clear information.
A consistent point of contact.

01   Understand the process
02   Prepare for participation
03   Raise support concerns

Independent support
Separation from the fact-finding role.

Practical information
Understand what happens next.

Wellbeing awareness
Identify support and reprisal concerns.

Helping people navigate a public interest disclosure

Meet the Synergy team →

A disclosure process can be stressful for disclosers, subject officers and witnesses. Independent support can help people understand the process and identify questions or concerns they need to raise.

Our support consultants have experience working with government organisations and sensitive investigation processes. The appointing organisation agrees the role, communication arrangements and boundaries of the engagement.

Support arrangements depend on the applicable jurisdiction, framework and circumstances. Discuss these with the organisation managing the disclosure.

Practical support within clear boundaries

The support role is distinct from investigating the complaint, advocacy or providing legal advice.

  • Explain the investigation process and the roles of those involved.
  • Help participants prepare for interviews and meetings.
  • Provide agreed progress information and regular check-ins.
  • Discuss access to professional support, such as an employee assistance program.
  • Raise concerns about possible detriment or reprisal through agreed channels.
  • Liaise with the organisation’s disclosure coordinator where appropriate.

HOW WE WORK

How a support engagement works

01

Confirm the brief

Discuss the applicable framework, participant needs and potential conflicts.

02

Set boundaries

Agree the role, confidentiality limits and communication channels.

03

Provide support

Offer process information, preparation and agreed check-ins.

04

Review needs

Consider concerns and ongoing support needs as the matter progresses.

YOUR QUESTIONS

Before you get started

Who arranges the service?

Synergy is engaged by the organisation managing the disclosure. Individuals seeking independent support can raise that request with their organisation’s disclosure coordinator.

Is the support person also the investigator?

The support role is separate from the fact-finding role. Responsibilities and potential conflicts should be addressed when the engagement is arranged.

Does the service include legal advice or advocacy?

No. The role provides practical support and information, rather than legal advice, representation or advocacy.

How long does support continue?

Duration and review points are agreed with the appointing organisation in light of the participant’s needs and the process.

LET’S TALK THROUGH THE NEXT STEP

Arranging independent disclosure support?

Discuss the participant’s needs, the applicable framework and the scope of support with our team.