Although this Code is required by Section 49 of the Local Government Act 2020, we also believe that the adoption of a Code of Conduct represents good management practice.

In addition, there are standards of conduct that the community and our colleagues expect of us all. Our reputation influences how our community feels about our services, and how ratepayers, residents and visitors perceive us. Conducting ourselves with integrity is critical to building and maintaining trust and confidence in us and our organisation. Council has developed this code as a statement of commitment to how we will conduct ourselves and our business, and how we will work with the public, our clients and colleagues

The purpose of the Code of Conduct is to set out Strathbogie Shire Council’s expectations of staff at all levels in performing duties or acting on behalf of council. It sets a consistent approach to, and common understanding of, the behaviours, standards, values, and ethics required in all work activities, and instructs and advises you on how to avoid situations that may damage your reputation or that of Council.

Everyone should be aware that breaches of this code may lead to disciplinary action including termination of employment with Council.

Read it. Understand it. Follow it.

The Code of Conduct applies to all Council employees and representatives including:

• full-time, part-time and casual employees
• permanent and temporary employees, including work experience or graduates performing work for Council
• temporary and casual individuals engaged through an agency
• staff on exchange or secondment.

Additionally, this code applies to contractors, volunteers and external parties when they work for and represent Council, including on Council committees and those employed by Council’s subsidiaries in any capacity.

The Code of Conduct applies to any situation which could be identified with or reflect on the Council, including out-of-hours activities such as social functions, using Council vehicles, attendance at conferences or any time when wearing a Council uniform or identification badge.

If you are unsure whether or how this Code of Conduct applies to you, check with your manager or the People and Culture Department.

The Code provides practical information about laws and regulations, expectations and principals. It also includes links to further information sources to help you use your own good judgement.

It would be impractical for this code to describe every requirement of employees or present all the details of the policies that affect their conduct. Instead, it has been written to make employees aware of the range of ethical issues and legislation that affects their behaviour at work and to point to where they can find out more detailed information about procedures or policy. It is also up to employees to seek information when they need to clarify any area of conduct.