Further to the allegations of misappropriation or possible misuse of Union funds in the HSU National Office, the National Executive of the Health Services Union has been briefed on the findings of an independent investigation into expenditure of the National Office of the Union in the period 2002 – 2007 (“The Investigation”).

The Investigation was conducted by Slater & Gordon Lawyers and the accountancy firm BDO Kendalls at the request of the National Executive.

The National Executive has instructed Slater & Gordon to provide a copy of the findings of the Investigation to the Industrial Registrar and relevant findings to the Australian Electoral Commission.

Given that the Industrial Registrar and AEC have already indicated an interest in the Investigation and not wishing to prejudice any further investigations that may be undertaken by them, the Executive has resolved that it is not appropriate to release the findings of the Investigation at this time.

The Industrial Registrar and AEC have statutory powers and responsibilities which may enable those bodies to make inquiries that are not available to the Union. The Executive also resolved, in addition to providing the findings of the Investigation to the Industrial Registrar and relevant findings to the AEC, to work with them to finalise these matters to their satisfaction.

Rosemary Kelly is a member of the National Executive as Secretary of the HSU Victoria No 4 Branch. The MSAV, VPA and AHP are component associations of the HSU#4.

Our Branch Committee notes that the Industrial Registrar must investigate the allegations if petitioned to do so by 250 or more members.