Criminal Justice Commission (Queensland)

The Criminal Justice Commission (CJC) was a statutory authority established in Queensland, Australia, in 1989 following the Fitzgerald Inquiry into police corruption. Its primary function was to combat organised crime and corruption within the state's public sector, including the Queensland Police Service.

The CJC's powers and functions were wide-ranging, encompassing investigation, intelligence gathering, witness protection, and the conduct of public hearings. It also had a preventative role, advising government on legislative and administrative reforms aimed at reducing the opportunities for corruption. The CJC operated independently from the government of the day, ensuring impartiality in its investigations and recommendations.

Key aspects of the CJC's mandate included:

• Investigating corruption: Conducting investigations into allegations of corrupt conduct within the Queensland public sector.
• Intelligence gathering: Collecting and analysing intelligence related to organised crime and corruption.
• Witness protection: Providing protection to witnesses who provided evidence in CJC investigations.
• Public hearings: Holding public hearings to examine issues related to corruption and organised crime.
• Legislative and administrative reform: Recommending reforms to laws and government policies to prevent corruption.

The Criminal Justice Commission underwent significant changes and restructuring over the years. In 2002, it was renamed the Crime and Misconduct Commission (CMC). In 2014, the CMC was again renamed and reorganised to become the Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC), which continues to operate as the primary anti-corruption body in Queensland. The legacy of the CJC remains important in the history of Queensland's efforts to combat corruption and ensure accountability within its public sector. Its establishment marked a significant shift towards greater transparency and integrity in government and law enforcement.