Australia’s federal integrity watchdog is one step closer to fruition after its main piece of legislation passed through the House of Representatives. 

The bill passed the lower house without division today, with the crossbench, Greens and Coalition all failing to get amendments up.

The National Anti-Corruption Commission, which will investigate serious or systemic corruption in the public sector, will be able to compel politicians, bureaucrats and officials to give evidence.

The commission would only be allowed to hold public hearings under “exceptional circumstances” and when it’s in the public interest to do so.

Independents have argued the Commission should have more teeth but Labor will be able to get its model over the line with support from the Opposition.

The government hopes to pass a second bill relating to the National Anti-Corruption Commission later today.

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