PwC chief investigated after using confidential government information to boost business
- PwC partner investigated government information after improper use
- The finance minister claims they used it to boost business
A PwC partner who shared confidential information about the federal government’s tax policy to boost business has been referred to the Australian Federal Police.
Peter Collins, former head of the consultancy’s international tax office, has made improper use of Commonwealth confidential information, the Treasury Secretary says.
That has led to the referral to the AFP to consider whether criminal charges should be brought.
A PwC partner who shared confidential information about federal government tax policy to boost business has been referred to the Australian Federal Police
“The emails submitted to Parliament by the Tax Practitioners Board on 2 May 2023 highlighted the significant scale of the unauthorized disclosure of Commonwealth confidential information and the wide range of individuals within PwC who had direct and indirect knowledge of the confidential information,” said a statement from the finance minister.
“In light of these recent revelations and the seriousness of this misconduct, the Treasury Department has referred the matter to the Australian Federal Police for consideration of a criminal investigation.”
PwC’s former head of international tax Peter Collins (pictured) shared information about tax increases, according to the Treasury Secretary
The partner shared information about tax increases, including rules that prevent multinationals from cutting taxes by shifting profits internationally.
Their CEO has since resigned and PwC has launched an investigation into the company’s practices.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers has since pledged to strengthen the powers of the Tax Practitioners Board after it discovered the breach.
PwC has handled more than $500 million worth of federal government contracts in the past two years.