Sample Code of Conduct for Boards and Committees

Sample Code of Conduct

Your board or committeename goes here

Message from the Chair

A statement from the Chair or President

Make it clear when the code will apply and to whom. For example, you may wish to clarify if it only applies at board meetings, or also at official board visits and at events where individuals represent the board.

Your Board’s Values

In all our operations and relationships we value:

• set out here your values, role or mission

Conduct

Personal behaviour – I will:

• act ethically and with integrity;
• act according to the legislative requirements, policies and ethical codes that apply;
• make decisions fairly, impartially and promptly, considering all available information, legislation, policies and procedures;
• treat members of the public and colleagues with respect, courtesy, honesty and fairness, and have proper regard for their interests rights, safety and welfare;
• not harass, bully or discriminate against colleagues, members of the public and employees;
• contribute to a harmonious, safe and productive work environment by our work habits, and professional workplace relationships; and
• serve the government of the day by fulfilling our purpose and statutory requirements.

Communication and official information – I will:

• not disclose official information or documents acquired through my work, other than as required by law or where proper authorisation is given;
• not misuse official information for personal or commercial gain for myself or another;
• adhere to legal requirements, policies and all other lawful directives regarding communication with Parliament, ministers, ministerial staff, lobbyists, members of the media and members of the public generally; and
• respect the confidentiality and privacy of all information as it pertains to individuals.

Fraudulent and corrupt behaviour – I will:

• not engage in fraud or corruption;
• report any fraudulent or corrupt behaviour;
• report any breaches of the code of conduct; and
• understand and apply the accountability requirements that apply.

Use of public resources – I will:

• be accountable for official expenditure;
• use publicly-funded resources diligently and efficiently. These include office facilities and equipment, vehicles, cab charge vouchers, corporate credit cards;
• use corporate credit cards only for Board-related expenditure;
• not use office time or resources for party political work or for personal gain, financial or otherwise;
• keep to policies and guidelines in the use of computing and communication facilities, and use these resources in a responsible and practical manner; and
• be careful to ensure that any travel for official purposes is only done so when absolutely necessary.

Record keeping and use of information – I will:

• record actions and reasons for decisions to ensure transparency;
• ensure the secure storage of sensitive or confidential information;
• comply with our record keeping plan; and
• where permissible, share information to fulfil our role.

Conflicts of interest – I will:

• ensure personal or financial interests do not conflict with my ability to perform my official duties in an impartial manner;
• manage and declare any conflict between my personal and public duty; and
• where conflicts of interest do arise, ensure they are managed in the public interest.

I commit

• to taking responsibility for reporting improper conduct or misconduct which has been, or may be occurring in the workplace. I will report the details to the relevant people or agency; and
• to taking responsibility for contributing in a constructive and positive way to enhance good governance and the reputation of the board.

Public Sector Requirements

I am committed to upholding the principles in the Code of Ethics. The Board accepts the minimum requirements set out in the Conduct Guide for Boards and Committees. This code of conduct builds on these minimum requirements.