Your organisation should deal alleged breaches consistent with the Public Administration Act 2004 (the Act), the relevant employee code, its policy and any other obligations that apply.
Take a graduated approach.
Ensure your organisation responds in a fair, proportionate and reasonable manner. In some instances, this will mean no action is taken. In others, depending on the circumstances, the matter will be dealt with:
- on an informal basis, for example, through education or counselling
- through a performance management process or similar, or
- if other methods are not appropriate, through a misconduct process.
A finding of misconduct may amount to a breach of the code of conduct. Serious misconduct can result in termination of employment.
Contractors may be subject to contract renegotiation or termination.
If a criminal offence has occurred, the Victoria or Federal Police may investigate and prosecute.
To assist, we’ve incorporated this approach into:
- our model policy on conflict of interest
- our guide to conflict of interest – key things to know and do.