The ACT Integrity Commission has determined that former Queensland judge Walter Sofronoff engaged in “serious corrupt conduct” based on their assessment of his inquiry into the prosecution of Bruce Lehrmann. The commission’s report states that Sofronoff’s conduct matched certain elements of the definition of “corrupt conduct” due to disclosures he made to two journalists: Janet Albrechtsen from The Australian newspaper and Elizabeth Byrne from the ABC.

These disclosures were in violation of the confidentiality obligations outlined in the Inquiries Act and could have resulted in legal offences. Sofronoff’s actions were also dishonestly concealed from those involved in the inquiry, including prosecutor Shane Drumgold and the ACT chief minister. Consequently, they were unable to take necessary legal measures to protect their interests.

While Sofronoff claimed his actions were for the public interest, the commission concluded that he did not act in good faith. The commission believes Sofronoff’s conduct undermined the integrity of the Board’s processes and the fairness of its procedures, potentially threatening public confidence in administration. Therefore, the commission categorized his actions as serious corrupt conduct.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/19/lehrmann-inquiry-head-walter-sofronoff-engaged-in-serious-corrupt-conduct-review-finds-ntwnfb