Overview
- Derek Elias, a senior Home Affairs official, alleged the offshore regime on Nauru enabled rorting and said up to $16 million was paid for services that were unnecessary or not delivered.
- Elias said he has provided evidence to the AFP’s Operation Bernie-Beveridge, which is examining claims Canstruct charged taxpayers for insurance premiums suspected to cover luxury personal assets.
- Former soldier Oisin Donohoe alleged the Finks bikie gang infiltrated a Nauruan security provider tied to the recent NZYQ arrangement to profit from contract funds.
- Greens senator David Shoebridge said the claims will be referred to the National Anti-Corruption Commission, while independent MP Monique Ryan urged a suspension of payments to Nauru and flagged a Senate inquiry.
- The government cited strengthened controls from the 2024 Richardson review and said it is engaging with Nauru on reported risks, with the prime minister noting some issues predate the current administration.