Methods of Inquiry: Police Corruption, Historical Anti-Corruption Experiences and Implications for Contemporary Practices

Historically, establishing a judicial commission in response to allegations of police corruption has been regular method used by Australian governments. In Queensland alone, no less than five major inquiries with remit examine took place during the 27 years between 1963 and 1989. By using historical criminology, it is possible unpack cyclical need for such commissions as well reasons that most were unable realise their goal stamp out public service and, more specifically, police. This research reveals several key areas weakness temporary inquiry system, including narrow terms reference potential obstruction investigatory process. Based on this, this article identifies viable policy proposals centred renewed commitment standing anti‑corruption bodies, separate from politics broad investigate misconduct.