Examining misconduct and strengthening governance
The Fitzgerald Inquiry was established in 1987 to examine misconduct and strengthen governance. In its two years it exposed systematic, entrenched corruption and maladministration throughout Queensland’s public sector and among Cabinet Ministers.
The 1989 Fitzgerald Report was a landmark. It threw a spotlight on corrupt individuals and systems, but it also established a blueprint for lasting reform. It recommended new bodies to oversee those reforms in criminal justice and governance; many of which have not only endured but provided models for other jurisdictions.
The decades since the Report demonstrate that enduring reform requires vigilance, and ongoing oversight of public governance and accountability.
In recognition of this, in 2009, to mark the Report’s 20th anniversary, Griffith University launched the Tony Fitzgerald Biennial Lecture Series. The lectures from esteemed Australian and international speakers continue to put the spotlight on Tony Fitzgerald’s themes of democracy, human rights, accountability and corruption.
2025 Tony Fitzgerald Lecture
Keeping the bastards honest? Accountability mechanisms for executive government
In this year’s Tony Fitzgerald Lecture, former Chief Justice of Queensland and Royal Commissioner The Honourable Catherine Holmes AC SC explored the critical role of accountability in executive government. Drawing on her extensive legal and judicial experience, including her leadership of the Robodebt Royal Commission, Ms Holmes examined the effectiveness of Australia’s oversight mechanisms, both federally and within Queensland.
Referencing the systemic failures of the Robodebt scheme and broader international examples, the lecture offered a timely reflection on the importance of checks and balances in safeguarding democratic integrity.
Fitzgerald Lecture Series live recordings from 2009 to 2025
Sustainable Development Goals
Griffith University is aligned with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is committed to promoting the values of peace, justice and accountability, to contribute to a more just and equitable world where everyone can enjoy their fundamental rights and live in harmony.