The theatre of public inquiries and oh-so painful pitfalls of groupthink

By Stephen Bartos

September 30, 2020

Jenny Mikakos (AAP Image/James Ross)

Stephen Bartos reviews the themes that emerged from the inquiry into Victoria’s adoption of a hotel quarantine strategy for a COVID-19 cohort, identifying multiple lessons for public servants.

The Victorian COVID-19 hotel quarantine inquiry is entering its final stages. Hearings have finished; parties to the inquiry can still make submissions until 5 October 5, with a report to be delivered by 6 November.

It has been a sobering experience for public servants and ministers. A key topic for the inquiry has been the use of private security guards to enforce quarantine – an approach that turned out to be tragically wrong.

Subscribe for unlimited access

A Mandarin Premium subscription gives you access to all articles, webinars, discounted early-bird event invites and more.

INTRO OFFER - 40% OFF

ANNUAL $440$264

Save 40% on premium access for new accounts.
Just $22/month for your first year.
Renews at $440/year until cancelled.

MONTHLY $44

Unlimited access for just $10 per week. Cancel anytime.

About the author

Any feedback or news tips? Here’s where to contact the relevant team.

The Mandarin Premium

Try Mandarin Premium for $4 a week.

Access all the in-depth briefings. New subscribers only.

Get Premium Today