Introduction

Why do we have a Code?

The public expects certain standards of integrity and conduct from you as a Department employee. The primary purpose of this Code is to make those standards clear.

The Department will enforce the standards and may take disciplinary action if they are breached. The Code identifies the behaviours that are inappropriate or unacceptable and may lead to disciplinary action.

The Code also ensures that Department employees meet the minimum standards of integrity and conduct for public servants set out in the Public Service Code of Conduct, issued by the State Services Commission in terms of its authority under the State Sector Act 1988.

What does the Code do?

The Code sets out your responsibilities in the areas of integrity, conduct and performance, and the Department’s obligations to you as an employee.

The Code adopts a positive, principle-based approach in describing the behaviour expected of you, rather than attempting to list all the things that you should not do. It recognises that you work in an environment that regularly requires judgements and decisions to be made in difficult and complex situations.

To alert you to behaviours that might lead to dismissal, some examples of misconduct and serious misconduct are given, through the text and in a section at the end of the Code.

Underpinning the whole Code are four very important themes for all Corrections’ employees as public servants. These are the need to:

• Serve the Government of the day.
  The public service is part of Government. Through their Ministers, public servants serve the Government of the day by delivering services according to that Government’s policy or legislation, and by providing advice.
• Act with a “spirit of service” to the community.
  As a member of the public service, you need to ensure that at all times the public are provided with high-quality services and clear information on services and entitlements, and are treated fairly and reasonably.
• Obey the law.
  The Government and its agencies can be held to account in the courts for any breach of the law in the performance of their duties. In all circumstances public servants must obey the law. They must be familiar with the acts and regulations which directly affect their own work and be aware of and respect the processes of the law.
• Be accountable.
  The public have a right to expect that you will safeguard their interests and manage public resources responsibly. You must be accountable, in a transparent way, for your use of public money and assets.

Who is the Code for?

This Code has been developed for the Department. The Code applies to all Corrections’ employees, in all their duties, in the exercise of  statutory authorities, and to any contractors or consultants working with us.

How do I use the Code?

You should read the Code to familiarise yourself with it, and use it as an ongoing reference. Your manager will issue you with a copy of the Code and will spend time with you working through it so you are clear about its content and your obligations under it. You will be required to  sign a form to indicate you have received a copy of the Code and that you understand your obligations under it and the consequences of breaching it.

You should talk with your manager at any time you are uncertain about any areas of the Code, or if you think you may be at risk of breaching it.