Mandate

The federal lobbying regime sets requirements and standards for the transparent and ethical lobbying of federal officials.

The Commissioner of Lobbying with the support of the Office administers the Lobbying Act and the Lobbyists’ Code of Conduct.

Our primary responsibilities include:

• maintaining and enhancing the Registry of Lobbyists
• expanding awareness and understanding of the lobbying regime and compliance obligations through education
• conducting compliance work that supports respect of federal lobbying requirements

The Commissioner is independent from government and reports directly to Parliament.

Registration

We maintain and continuously improve the Registry of Lobbyists – the searchable source of information about lobbying activities reported by registrants as required by the Lobbying Act.

Through the online Registry, the public can learn about lobbying taking place at the federal level.

Education

Awareness and understanding of the federal lobbying regime and compliance obligations are expanded by publishing educational material and providing information sessions.

Lobbyists, registrants, federal officials and other stakeholders are offered ongoing support and advice – including on how to use the Registry and how to comply with the Lobbying Act and the Lobbyists’ Code of Conduct.

Compliance

We enhance respect for federal lobbying requirements through our compliance work, such as verifications to ensure that registrants file information correctly and on time.
Concerns about non-compliance are addressed and we investigate when the Commissioner believes it is necessary to ensure compliance with the Lobbying Act and the Lobbyists’ Code of Conduct; if the Commissioner discovers reasonable grounds to believe an offence under the Lobbying Act has occurred, the matter is referred to the appropriate police authority. At the conclusion of an investigation, findings are reported to Parliament