To fulfil our role of providing impartial advice, the public sector must ensure that offers of gifts, benefits and hospitality do not influence government actions or decision making.

In 2016, the VPSC set minimum accountabilities in the Gifts, Benefits and Hospitality Policy Framework. The minimum accountabilities are binding under Instruction 3.4.11 of the Instructions supporting the Standing Directions of the Minister for Finance 2016.

In 2018, the VPSC updated the policy guide (formerly framework) and supporting resources. These updates assist organisations to implement the policy and highlight the importance of considering conflicts of interest and reputational risks when offering or receiving gifts, benefits or hospitality.

The updates come into effect on 1 July 2018.

Guidance

Related obligations