The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption is currently investigating allegations of misconduct involving former Canterbury-Bankstown Council employee Benjamin Webb and former contractor Pietro Cossu. The inquiry, known as Operation Mantis, is examining whether the pair used a company, PMLV Invest and Const Pty Ltd, for recruitment subcontractor services without disclosing their financial interest in the company. The investigation also focuses on accusations that they may have improperly influenced the awarding of council contracts to benefit themselves or others. The public inquiry started in 2020 and is ongoing.
It was revealed during the inquiry that Webb managed the council’s works and project unit between 2020 and 2022, while Cossu was contracted by Randstad to work as a construction team leader at the council under Webb’s supervision. Cossu’s contract was terminated in December 2022. The commission is investigating whether Cossu, who was listed as PMLV’s director and sole shareholder until mid-2023, used the company to supply short-term workers to recruitment agencies Randstad and Spinifex Recruiting. These workers were then contracted to work for the council from 2021 until late 2022.
The inquiry heard that PMLV was paid a total of $690,729.50 by Randstad for the work Cossu was contracted to do at the council. Additionally, there is evidence that Cossu supplied 26 contingent workers through PMLV to Randstad and Spinifex Recruiting, who then subcontracted them to work for the council. The potential earnings from this arrangement could amount to $4 million. The commission is looking into whether Webb and Cossu acted partially or dishonestly in favouring General Works and Construction Pty Ltd by using the first company to subcontract council contracts to benefit themselves or others.
The ICAC is also investigating allegations that Webb and Cossu may have attempted to influence the awarding of council contracts to benefit themselves or third parties. The public inquiry is focusing on the period between 2020 and 2022 when Webb managed the council’s works and project unit. While neither Webb nor Cossu are currently employed by or contracted to the council, the inquiry aims to uncover any misconduct that may have occurred during their tenure. The commission will examine the evidence and testimonies presented during the inquiry to determine the extent of any wrongdoing and recommend any necessary actions to address the issues uncovered.
The inquiry is ongoing and will continue to gather evidence and testimonies from witnesses to determine the extent of any misconduct involving Webb and Cossu. The commission will scrutinize the financial records and contracts related to the recruitment of short-term workers through PMLV and its subcontracting to the council. The potential earnings of $4 million from this arrangement raise serious concerns about conflicts of interest and improper use of official functions. As the investigation progresses, the ICAC will assess the evidence to determine any breaches of integrity and recommend actions to address any wrongdoing that may have occurred.
The allegations of misconduct involving Webb and Cossu highlight the importance of transparency and accountability in public sector procurement processes. The inquiry will shed light on any potential abuses of power and conflicts of interest that may have influenced the awarding of council contracts. The commission’s investigation aims to ensure that public officials and contractors adhere to ethical standards and avoid actions that may compromise the integrity of government processes. By uncovering any wrongdoing and recommending corrective actions, the ICAC plays a crucial role in upholding the integrity of public institutions and maintaining public trust in government officials and contractors.
