Transparency International has released its annual Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2021, with Australia scoring its lowest result yet, ranking 18th in the world with a score of 73 out of 100.

Since 2012, Australia’s score has dropped 12 points, and its rank in the global index has fallen 11 places (from 7th place in 2012). Of all the OECD countries, Australia tied with Hungary in dropping the most points (12) over this period.

Transparency International CEO, Serena Lillywhite says that this ‘record low’ reflects the country’s ‘deteriorating corruption standing’ which has been indicated in the CPI since Transparency International’s new methodology began in 2012 as shown in the graph below.

Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index is the leading global indicator of public sector corruption, providing an annual comparative snapshot of 180 countries and territories. The index for 2021 draws on 13 expert assessments and surveys of businesspeople.

This year’s results demonstrate that 131 countries have made no significant progress against perceived corruption over the last decade, and this year 27 countries are at a historic low in their CPI score.

You can read Transparency International’s highlights and insights for the 2021 CPI, a summary of Australia’s position and navigate through the complete results here.