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Auditor raises Healthway concerns

Concerns raised: Healthway executive director David Malone. Picture: Micheal Wilson/The West Australian

The Public Sector Commission is investigating the State Government's health promotion agency after concerns were raised about the possible misuse of sponsorship perks, including a corporate box.

The Weekend West understands some issues relate to Healthway executive director David Malone, which have come to light as a result of a report by the Auditor-General's Office that found "deficiencies" in some of the taxpayer-funded agency's internal practices relating to sponsorship.

It is understood issues of concern include Mr Malone's personal use of a corporate box - part of a sponsorship deal with Perth Glory - for a family function a few days before last Christmas, as well as tickets to Healthway-sponsored sporting events.

_The West _understands Mr Malone, who joined the agency in 2008, paid for the catering for the family gathering in December but some senior Healthway staff were still uncomfortable about the arrangement.

Healthway was set up in 1991 under the Tobacco Products Control Act and is required to fund activities related to promoting good health, with particular focus on young people.

Its priorities are to reduce tobacco and alcohol consumption, prevent obesity and promote good community and individual mental health.

In recent years, Healthway has funded major sporting codes including soccer and cricket on the proviso they do not accept sponsorship from alcohol and junk food companies.

This week the agency would not answer specific claims about the contents of the Auditor-General's report but confirmed "issues relating to Healthways sponsorship approach" were raised with the agency by the Auditor-General's office.

"As a result, Healthway approached the Public Sector Commission and an investigation is under way," it said. "Healthway is unable to comment further until the PSC has completed its investigation."

Mr Malone declined to comment.

But several major sporting organisations said they would be angry if taxpayer-funded benefits had been used inappropriately when more money could have gone to sports.