misuse of public funds

[epsonprinters]

What should you do if you suspect an employer has misused the public purse?

Absolutely nothing. There's a world of difference between suspect and have proof and I'd want to be certain that I was correct before doing anything

It depends on what information you are basing your suspicion. You need sufficient evidence to form a reasonable belief. If you have that then contact the relevant regulatory authority, which will depend on the source of the funds.

Blow the whistle

I would check the rules very carefully before doing anything, because a lot of the time it's more about the employee not agreeing with the way the funds are spent rather than the employer actually breaking any rules!

Report it to the organisation that gave the funds. They can can have the project audited if necessary.

I would bring a public interest disclosure under their whistle blowing policy. If they do not have one or that is ignored, I'd find out who the regulator is and make the public interest disclosure to them, as is your right under the Act.

I need more than 'suspect' to take action.

If you have good reason to believe wrongdoing, and your concerns are genuine and not malicious, then you are acting properly if you bring it to the attention of whichever governance body/team covers the PS organisation of concern.

You are not necessarily accusing or stating someone is guilty, you just need to ask what steps should happen next. They are experts in taking matters further if they feel there is sufficiently strong information and not heresay. Then you have to step away.