Independent External Investigators
Our investigators are committed to managing complaints independently, delivering swift and thorough investigations underpinned by integrity.
Trident Consulting and Training can offer thorough investigation services to corporations in government and private sectors.
What Is An Investigation?
” … a process of seeking information relevant to an alleged, apparent or potential breach of the law, involving possible judicial proceedings. The primary purpose of an investigation is to gather admissible evidence for any subsequent action, whether under criminal, civil penalty, civil, disciplinary or administrative sanctions. Investigations can also result in prevention and/or disruption action. The term investigation can also include intelligence processes which directly support the gathering of admissible evidence. “
External or In-house Investigators
The decision to engage an external investigator instead of handling an investigation in-house is the product of a number of factors. Amongst these, primary consideration should be given to ensuring that the appropriate skills can be deployed to investigate the matter impartially and without undue disruption to day-to-day operations.
Some of the questions that must be answered prior to commencing any investigation include:
- Do we really want to fully investigate the matter regardless of where it leads?
- Is the proposed investigator truly qualified to conduct this investigation?
- Do they have the appropriate interviewing skills for the situation?
- Does the proposed investigator understand the legislative/regulatory framework surrounding the matter?
- Are there any conflicts of interest that could be perceived as influencing the investigation?
- Does the investigator have the necessary resources (time, research capability, etc.) available to them?
- Is the investigator impartial and able to operate without political constraints?
Relevance of AGIS
The Australian Government Investigations Standard (AGIS) seeks to establish “a standard for Australian Government entities conducting administrative, civil, or criminal (type) investigations ” – AGIS 20222. Whilst this standard specifically provides direction to Australian Government entities, it also forms the underlying framework as best practice for state and local government entities as well as other organisations operating under Australian law.
AGIS stipulates that investigators “must operate and conduct their duties with fairness, equality, consistency, professionalism, meet prosecutorial obligations and other regulatory duties for inquisitorial bodies.” and that “a vocational and educational training (VET) qualification must be obtained, unless another qualification or internal training is determined as equivalent.”
The VET accredited qualifications to conduct investigations under AGIS are:
- Certificate IV in Government Investigations
- Diploma of Government Investigations
- Advanced Diploma of Government Investigations
Why Choose Trident?
Our investigation services follow AGIS guidelines, and as such are suited to the specific needs of government entities as well as corporate workplaces. Whether you require complete end-to-end investigations, preliminary inquiries, or assistance with internal investigations, our team stands ready to provide adept support. Additionally, we offer guidance to managers seeking seamless navigation of investigative procedures. Trident Consulting and Training furnish comprehensive reports incorporating detailed discussions of facts, findings, and recommendations for change as deemed necessary.