Questions have been asked about former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian’s current employer. 

Singtel, the Singapore Government-controlled owner of Optus, claims to have a “zero tolerance” policy towards bribery and corruption. However, this assertion has come in contrast to recent events involving Optus senior executive Gladys Berejiklian, who was found guilty of serious corruption while serving as NSW Premier. 

The NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) determined that Berejiklian engaged in conduct that breached public trust. 

Despite these findings, Optus and Singtel have refused to condemn her actions or indicate whether she will be removed from her role. 

This has caused outrage among experts in corporate governance and business ethics.

Dr Andrew Schmulow, a prominent governance expert, has criticised Singtel for breaching its “social licence” to own critical infrastructure in Australia and called for the company to divest Optus.

Berejiklian's role at Optus involves securing major contracts from Australian governments and dealing with sensitive government information.

Singtel's “Singtel Group Anti-Bribery and Corruption Policy” reportedly states a zero tolerance approach to corruption in any form. However, it does not appear to specifically address the employment of former politicians involved in serious corruption.

Optus, as Singtel's largest subsidiary, is a major source of revenue and profit for the company. 

However, Optus has faced extensive criticism for allegedly avoiding income tax in Australia, and making political donations to Australian parties.

Additionally, the breach of Optus customers' personal details in a major data breach and the refusal to release the findings of an independent external review have further added to the scrutiny faced by the company. 

Berejiklian says she is considering a legal response to the ICAC report.