The on-going scandal of government employees accepting bribes to buy toner cartridges at inflated prices is even more widespread than previously thought, reports Adelaide Now.
As previously reported, some government employees had purchased cartridges for more than three times the usual price in return for cash and gadgets such as iPhones. One officer had spent more than AU$80,000 on supplies, while another bought 40 years worth of toner at once. 
In the latest development, the SA Health Department is believed to have made up to AU$161,781 in suspected cartridge purchases. Three sites, including a hospital, are believed to have made the purchases in return for electronic gifts and vouchers.
SA Health Chief Executive David Swan today tod Adelaide Now that there had been “higher than expected” purchases of toner cartridges had been uncovered at three SA Health locations.
“Following an investigation by senior investigators in Government Investigations Unit,
evidence of excessive purchases and stock holdings was confirmed in three locations,” he said.
“The investigation also found evidence of gifts provided by the supplier as a result of purchase of toner cartridges. Three employees were suspended pending the outcome of the formal investigation.
He added: “Following the completion of the investigation, appropriate action will be undertaken based on consideration of the investigation outcomes, advice of the Crown Solicitor’s Office.”