The Public Accounts Committee is reviewing its procedures after a document provided to it ended up in the hands of another media outlet.
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Treasurer Peter Gutwein said information provided by Hydro Tasmania to PAC’s energy inquiry had “found its way into the public domain” without being released by the committee.
"Accordingly I would like advice from the committee on what actions have been taken, how you will ensure that such a breach does not occur again, importantly, that sensitive information provided to the committee is given appropriate protection,” Mr Gutwein said.
It’s understood one document was obtained by ABC radio presenter Leon Compton.
The document was read into Hansard by Labor treasury spokesman Scott Bacon at a hearing this month.
A Hydro Tasmania spokesman said “the document in question was provided to PAC as non-confidential” and was not aware of it being provided to any third party.
A state government spokesman said “it appeared at least two documents had allegedly been leaked”.
Committee chairman Ivan Dean could not be contacted on Tuesday, but was reluctant to discuss the matter during the inquiry.
“It is a serious matter and I don't wish to discuss that further in a public session at all but the committee is working through that process,” Mr Dean said.
Opposition Leader Bryan Green said he did not know what documents the Treasurer was alleging had been leaked.
“We have not, I have not leaked any information from the committee. All I know is what I’ve read in the newspapers has been on the public record from the committee. What allegations are they making?,” Mr Green said.
“All I can say to you is everything I have heard from the ABC or anyone else has been on the public record and for them to suggest this is effectively another smokescreen to protect themselves because... the Treasurer’s performance has been completely abysmal.”
Mr Bacon focused on correspondence between Hydro and the government on Tuesday, saying the expectation of a $75 million dividend in 2017-18 had put pressure on Hydro to sell the Tamar Valley Power Station’s combined cycle gas turbine.
Mr Gutwein was adamant the expected dividend was calculated based on Hydro finding efficiencies, and denied it was at all linked to the sale of the turbine.
