Anti-corruption changes being weighed up

Attorney-General Christian Porter says he remains open to all options for improving how politicians and public servants are held accountable for corruption.

Attorney-General Christian Porter

Attorney-General Christian Porter says the protections are necessary Source: AAP

Finding a new way to hold federal politicians and public servants accountable for corruption and misconduct is not out of the question for Scott Morrison's government.

But Labor's proposal for a new anti-corruption watchdog is far too light on details to consider, according to Attorney-General Christian Porter.

The opposition is goading the prime minister to declare his position on the establishment of a national integrity commission.

Labor has vowed since January to introduce the watchdog if it wins the next election, but Opposition Leader Bill Shorten said on Monday he wants to start the process immediately.

He has written to Mr Morrison and when parliament resumes on November 26, the opposition will seek support from the crossbench on the issue.

"After three months (as prime minister), time's up, Mr Morrison - you should now declare your support for this body," Mr Shorten said.

"We will work with the coalition, but we will not wait for them. The people of Australia deserve nothing less."

Mr Porter said the opposition had failed to shed any light on how the idea would work.

"Labor has provided no details about the powers, jurisdiction or any information on the critical issue of if, or when, public hearings would apply," he said in a statement.

The attorney-general said the coalition is continuing to weigh up its options on strengthening the national integrity framework and is open to all policy options.

"As I have said repeatedly, I am not closed-minded as to options for a future integrity framework," Mr Porter said.

"It is important that changes in this area improve upon the current system, rather than adding complexity and confusion."


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Source: AAP


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