For Australia’s anti-corruption agency, perception matters. And it starts at the top

‘The perception of independence of an integrity agency is at the very core of its existence,’ writes Deborah Glass. Photograph: Mick Tsikas/AAP

The news that the inaugural Nacc (National Anti-Corruption Commission) commissioner, Paul Brereton, has resigned will surprise no one who has been following the unflattering headlines about the Nacc since it began operation three years ago.

But who will replace him, and how will they be chosen? How can the public have confidence they will be not only independent, but have the courage to expose truths that may be uncomfortable for governments, driven by a robust assessment of the public interest?