Respect

Public officials should demonstrate respect for colleagues, other public officials and members of the Victorian community by:

  • treating them fairly and objectively; and
  • ensuring  freedom from discrimination, harassment and bullying; and
  • using their views to improve outcomes on an ongoing basis.

(Public Administration Act 2004, s. 7)

6.1   Fair and Objective Treatment

Public sector employees promote an environment that encourages respect.

Public sector employees are fair, objective and courteous in their dealings with the Government, community and other public sector employees.

6.2   Privacy and Confidentiality

Public sector employees understand the importance of privacy and confidentiality. Confidential information requires special treatment and protection. Those people who provide confidential information to public sector employees have the right to expect this information will be treated as confidential. Public sector employees with access to confidential information ensure it remains confidential, and at all times act in accordance with legislation and policies relating to dealing with private information.

6.3   Maintaining Confidentiality

Public sector employees receive and manage information in such a manner that its confidentiality will be maintained and that it will not be used to advantage a prospective employer or business, or disadvantage the Victorian Government.

6.4   Equity and Diversity

Public sector employees follow the spirit as well as the letter of the law relating to discrimination, harassment, bullying and victimisation. Public sector employees create an environment that is free of discrimination, harassment and bullying.

Valuing and promoting diversity is an important element of demonstrating respect.

6.5   Improving Outcomes

Public sector employees are conscientious and efficient in their work. They use their knowledge and expertise to deliver a high quality service, as well as identifying opportunities to improve service outcomes.

Public sector employees contribute both individually and as part of a team and engage constructively with their colleagues on work related matters. They share information with team members to support delivery of the best and most appropriate service outcomes.