The Northern Territory's new Independent Commissioner Against Corruption (ICAC) has issued a warning to staff that do not meet his expectations. 

Commissioner Michael Riches has only been in the job for a month, but already has had to investigate allegations of a conflict of interest within his office prior to his tenure, and allegations of leaks to the media.

“Those who work in my office must act with the utmost integrity,” he said in a statement this week.

“Anyone who cannot or will not meet that expectation has no place in my team.”

The alleged conflict of interest related to a report on the Darwin Turf Club, handed down whunderen former commissioner Ken Fleming, which made findings of improper conduct against five people over a $12 million taxpayer grant to build a new grandstand.

Media reports alleged that an ICAC contractor who helped prepare the Darwin Turf Club report was involved in a previous dispute with the club.

The ICAC office has since confirmed that the referral to the ICAC Inspector was made “in light of matters raised” in correspondence from the media.

Mr Riches has promised to “co-operate fully” with the investigation, even though it predates his time at the watchdog. 

Additionally, NT Police are investigating a complaint from the chairman of the Darwin Turf Club, claiming details of the ICAC investigation were leaked to a media outlet.

Mr Riches said the matters must be addressed fairly and openly. 

“The matters that have been raised over the last week will be investigated,” Mr Riches said.

“Where allegations of impropriety are made about my staff or me, they will be taken seriously.

“There is little prospect of having that positive influence unless this office is trusted.

“What matters to me is the integrity of this office, which must be above reproach.”