| Summary |
While there is no universal definition of 'corruption', the term is generally understood to include bribery, extortion, embezzlement, money laundering, illicit enrichment, and abuse of functions, position or influence. Globally, corruption is a serious and widespread crime undermining democratic institutions, jeopardising economic development, and threatening the security and stability of governments. In Australia, barely a day goes by when the media does not report corrupt behaviour in political parties, the public sector, trade unions, sports bodies and companies. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Australia has slipped in Transparency International's latest Corruption Perceptions Index. This book explores the extent and impacts of corruption worldwide, and examines the latest anti-corruption efforts in Australia. Corruption can be prosecuted after the fact, but first and foremost, it requires prevention. How do we detect and deal with greed and graft? |
