Epstein files set to be released; John Laws state funeral today; Trump hosts Mohammed bin Salman at White House
The home secretary, who remained with Tony Burke, said his department had briefed Nauru on: Alleged corruption in Australia’s offshore detention system.
When asked about the allegations raised by this masthead (including contracts awarded to cyclists), Burke said Nauru was responsible for these contracts but said the government was taking the situation seriously.
Loading
“Contracts… [are] Contracts obtained independently by decision of the Nauruan government. Australia is not a party to the conventions in any way, but… as any Australian taxpayer would want, anything that relates to criminal organizations or anything that my security agencies can assist with, we provide that information,” Burke told ABC’s Radio National.
“I assure you that when this information is provided as it was and is a part of, that discussion [with Nauruan President David Adeang]It is taken very seriously by the Nauruan government.
“What they do next – we are not parties to the contract – is a decision for them to make, but I have no doubt that they take these matters very seriously.”
Offshore detention center on Nauru.Credit: access point
Asked if there were any legal obstacles to disclosing details of the bilateral agreement, Burke said it would have to be done with the permission of both countries or through the courts.
“Unless there is an agreement between Australia and Nauru, it may be possible that these documents will be provided in the course of different legal proceedings that take place,” Burke said.
