Impartiality
Public officials should demonstrate impartiality by:
- making decisions and providing advice on merit and without bias, caprice, favouritism or self-interest; and
- acting fairly by objectively considering all relevant facts and fair criteria.
(Public Administration Act 2004, ss.7(1) and 7(3))
4.1 Decisions and Advice
Public sector employees of special bodies make decisions and provide advice that is free of prejudice or favouritism and is based on sound judgement. Their decisions are not affected by personal influences.
4.2 Gifts and Benefits
Public sector employees of special bodies do not – for themselves or others – seek or accept gifts or benefits (including hospitality). They refuse all gifts and benefits that could reasonably be perceived as influencing them or undermining the integrity of their organisation or themselves. Demonstrating Impartiality 4 14 Code of Conduct for Victorian Public Sector Employees of Special Bodies Public sector employees of special bodies comply with any policies of their public sector special body head in relation to accepting, declaring and recording the receipt of gifts or benefits. Public sector employees of special bodies who are unsure about accepting a gift or benefit seek advice from their manager.
4.3 Acting Fairly
Public sector employees of special bodies deal with issues consistently, fairly and in a timely manner. Public sector employees of special bodies use fair criteria, and consider all relevant information in dealing with issues. Being fair means being just and working within commonly accepted rules.