Fraud and corruption

Last updated: 11 Sep 2025

The ASA is committed to implementing a contemporary and effective control framework to prevent, detect and respond to fraudulent and corrupt behaviour. This commitment is outlined in the ASA Fraud and Corruption Control Plan 2025–2027.

Fraud is defined as “dishonestly obtaining (including attempting to obtain) a gain or benefit, or causing a loss or risk of loss, by deception or other means.”

Examples of fraud include:

  • theft or misuse of ASA assets, equipment or facilities
  • accounting fraud (for example false invoices, misappropriation of funds, vendor management)
  • misuse of ASA expense or travel cards
  • dishonestly obtaining allowances and benefits
  • theft or misuse of ASA information or intellectual property providing false or misleading information to ASA, or failing to provide information when there is an obligation to do so.

Corruption is defined as “any conduct that does or could compromise the integrity, accountability or probity of public administration.”

Put simply, ‘corruption’ is the misuse of entrusted power or authority for personal gain. The following list provides examples of types of behaviours that may amount to corruption in ASA:

  • collusion between ASA personnel and a contractor, consultant or outsourced service provider
    bribery
  • obtaining, offering or soliciting secret commissions, kickbacks or gratuities
  • one or more individuals manipulating a procurement process for personal gain
  • nepotism - preferential treatment of family members
  • cronyism - preferential treatment of friends and associates
  • acting or failing to act on a conflict of interest
  • unlawful disclosure of official or commercially sensitive information
  • insider trading - misusing official information to gain an unfair private, commercial or market advantage for self or others.

Fraud and corruption complaints

To discuss or report a potential fraud or corruption matter relating to the Australian Submarine Agency, email us at asa.fraudandcorruption@defence.gov.au, call us on 02 6214 4677 or use the form below.

By choosing to remain anonymous you acknowledge that your report may not be actioned if insufficient information is provided, and you will not be informed of the outcome of your report.”
Enter your name
Please provide an approximate timeframe if specific dates are unknown.

Guidance for submitting a complaint

•    Please provide details of who, where, when, what, how where possible.
•    Be clear and factual
•    Avoid speculation, personal attacks and emotive language
•    Provide any evidence you may have and witness names where possible

Information classified higher than 'OFFICIAL' must not be included in the online form submission. Please contact asa.fraudandcorruption@defence.gov.au to discuss alternative reporting arrangements if required.
 

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•    Employment status as current or former APS, ADF members or contractors
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