It has become standard practice for government departments to cut corners and act outside of legislative powers to carry out their duties. The police, the ATO and many other government departments do it, because it makes their job easier.

 

Often the intention is well meaning, and in many instances it is effective. However, in some instances this corner cutting results in an innocent member of the public being unfairly treated. For this reason, it should not be permitted.

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It is crucial to draw a definitive line, and that line has to be drawn at the legislation; public servants who operate outside the legislation must be held to account.

 

Moreover, where is the line drawn? If government departments are permitted to act outside of legislation, then it gives them free license to act as they please, enabling them to wield their authority unchecked.

 

It is crucial to draw a definitive line, and that line has to be drawn at the legislation; public servants who operate outside the legislation must be held to account.