As the Independent Commission against Corruption (ICAC) continues to work towards becoming operational in the coming months, Commissioner Andrew Forbes has advised that collaboration with multiple local and international agencies is key to their operations. Andrew Forbes advised PNG HAUSBUNG that at this point, they are well advanced in growing their networks as they continue to collaborate with agencies, departments and integrity institutions as well as international counterparts. “We have had some initial consultation on the arrangement of working through an Anti-Corruption Multi-Agency Task force with a number of integrity agencies and institutions facilitated through the office of the Chief Secretary.” The commissioner said they hope to see this initiative progress, as it will be an exemplar as it will demonstrate a true sense of collaboration. “Collaboration is Key, as ICAC’s role will always involve ‘triaging’ complaints that allege corrupt conduct.” This means that while most corruption related complaints may be directed to ICAC, not all will be dealt with through its processes. He stated that through ICACs referral role, many of these complaints will be referred to the appropriate agencies (Police and the Ombudsman Commission) to deal with. As he explained, ICAC will maintain a watching brief over all complaints, even if they are referred to other agencies. He said collaboration with courts on the other hand will be restricted because the courts are entirely independent. It is anticipated that the only direct dealings with the courts, other than in the capacity of a party to the proceedings, may involve facilitating the process to carry out its powers.