New head of SA’s integrity watchdog appointed
An experienced prosecutor will lead South Australia’s Office for Public Integrity for the next three years.
Attorney-General Kyam Maher today announced the appointment of prosecutor Vanessa Burrows as head of South Australia’s Office for Public Integrity (OPI).
Burrows replaces Emma Townsend, who was appointed to lead the South Australian Independent Commission Against Corruption in December 2024.
Burrows is currently the acting director of OPI and has worked in the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for nearly 15 years in roles ranging from solicitor to acting senior solicitor, acting senior prosecutor and prosecutor.
Maher said that while at the ODPP, she worked on numerous complex and sensitive prosecutions, including sex offences and cases involving death caused by dangerous driving.
In her new role, Burrows will lead the body responsible for receiving and referring on complaints made against government agencies, statutory authorities and public servants in relation to public administration to anti-corruption bodies.
She will also oversee the investigation of complaints made against South Australian police officers.
Maher said that Burrows was chosen after an extensive recruitment process and will lead OPI for the next three years.
“Vanessa Burrows has proven herself to be an exceptional prosecutor and clearly understands how South Australia’s integrity bodies operate, with extensive experience in the Office of Public Integrity,” said Maher.
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“I am sure she will continue her strong track record as a leader of the OPI and look forward to her contribution in years to come.
“I am confident that Ms Burrows’ appointment will support a strong and effective integrity system in South Australia.”
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