The AFP and Attorney-General’s department have this week launched the Bribery Prevention Network, aimed at supporting businesses to prevent, detect and address bribery and corruption.

The Bribery Prevention Network brings together Australia’s top ASX-listed companies, civil society, academic institutions, and government, providing a free online portal of “accessible, relevant and reliable” resources.

It is hosted by Global Compact Network Australia (GCNA) – the local network of the United Nations Global Compact, the Bribery Prevention Network – and curated by Australia’s leading anti-bribery experts.

“When entering international markets, Australian companies are faced with a myriad of bribery and corruption laws that can sit in contrast to local customs, expectations, and competitive pressure to bribe,” the Australian Federal Police said in a statement.

“We know that corruption is a significant obstacle to economic and social development globally, and disproportionately affects poor communities,” says Executive Director of the GCNA, Kylie Porter.

“Businesses must act responsibly and set a positive example in society.

“The Bribery Prevention Network assists businesses to detect, prevent and address bribery and corruption. In doing so, businesses can reduce the risk of facing high ethical and operational risks and associated costs, whilst protecting their own business, the interests of their stakeholders and society as a whole.”

Members of the network include Australian Federal Police (AFP), Attorney-General’s Department, Transparency International Australia, BHP, Westpac, ANZ Bank, Commonwealth Bank, KPMG Australia, Allens and the Australia-Africa Minerals & Energy Group (AAMEG).

The AFP says it has 17 active investigations into foreign bribery with more than 130 pursued over the last decade.