9. Ethics Obligations

This section outlines the ethics obligations as stated in the Public Sector Ethics Act.

9.1 Obligation: Respect for the Law and System of Government

A public official should uphold the laws of the State and the Commonwealth and carry out official public sector decisions and policies faithfully and impartially.

This obligation does not detract from an appointed public official's duty to act independently of government if the official's independence is required by legislation or government policy, or is a customary feature of the official's work (e.g. Judges, Royal Commissioners).

9.2 Obligation: Respect for Persons

A public official should treat members of the public and other public officials honestly and fairly, and with proper regard for their rights and obligations.

A public official is to act responsively in performing official duties.

9.3 Obligation: Integrity

In recognition that public office involves a public trust, a public official should seek to maintain and enhance public confidence in the integrity of public administration and advance the common good of the community the official serves. Having regard to that obligation, a public official:

• should not improperly use his or her official powers or position, or allow them to be improperly used;
  
  
• should ensure that any conflict that may arise between the official's personal interests and official duties is resolved in favour of the public interest; and
  
  
• should disclose fraud, corruption, misconduct and maladministration of which the official becomes aware. (Procedures for doing this are set out in the Criminal Justice Actand the Whistleblowers Protection Act).

9.4 Obligation: Diligence

In the performance of official duties, public officials should exercise proper diligence, care and attention. Officials should seek to achieve high standards of public administration.

9.5 Obligation: Economy and Efficiency

In performing their official duties, public officials should ensure that public resources are not wasted, abused, or used improperly or extravagantly.