POLICE have confirmed they are investigating Njernda Aboriginal Corporation for an alleged misuse of funds that might run to as much as $1 million or more.
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The investigation is focused on the years 2005 to the middle of 2019.
And the current Njernda board, elected two years ago, has also confirmed the investigation; telling the Riverine Herald the police are not looking at the new board for anything other than assistance.
Police have declined to comment on the progress of their investigation.
In a statement provided to the Riv it said: “Campaspe Crime Investigation Unit is investigating a report of an alleged deception relating to the misappropriation of funds from the Echuca agency between 2005 and mid-2019.
‘‘As the investigation is ongoing, it would be inappropriate to comment further.”
A statement provided to the Riv from Njernda Aboriginal Corporation board and chief executive said the current board and management was working closely with Victoria Police regarding an investigation into the alleged misuse of funds.
“The corporation’s new board was made aware of concerns relating to past practices when it was elected two years ago,” the statement said.
“Upon being made aware of those concerns, the new board engaged independent and regulatory bodies to review past and current practices.
“Those past practices are now the focus of an ongoing investigation by the Campaspe Crime Investigation Unit.
“Notwithstanding the investigation, each person involved is entitled to the presumption of innocence.
“Njernda’s current board and management team is committed to continuing to build the robustness of the organisation, guarantee transparency with community and funders, and ensuring that self-determination remains at the heart of everything we do.”
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