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Code of Conduct Policy

Policy overview

1 Purpose

To provide a framework for University Members to identify and resolve issues concerning the ethical conduct of individuals at the University.

2 Scope

This Policy, the Code of Conduct ('the Code') applies to:

  • all professional and academic Employees of the University whether full-time or fractional, continuing, fixed-term, or casual
  • members of the University Council and University Committees
  • visiting and adjunct academics
  • volunteers who contribute to University activities or who act on behalf of the University.

In addition, individuals who are granted access to University facilities or who are engaged in providing services to the University, such as contractors and consultants, are also expected to comply with applicable provisions of the Code.

In places where the Code is applicable to all of the above members of the University community, the general term 'University Member(s)' is used.

Exclusions:

This Policy does not apply to Students. Students are referred to the Student General Conduct Policy and the Student General Misconduct Procedure. Complaints are managed in accordance with the Student Grievance Resolution Procedure.

3 Policy Statement

The University's Code aims to foster and maintain public trust and confidence in the integrity and professionalism of the University by expecting that University Members will:

  • maintain appropriate standards of conduct
  • develop those skills necessary for the efficient performance of their duties
  • maintain fairness in Decision making
  • maintain and enhance the reputation of the University
  • adhere to appropriate ethical standards.

The personal and professional behaviour of University Members should conform to the standards that reasonably could be expected of persons in such positions. This includes:

  • a commitment by Employees to professional standards in teaching, research, administration and community involvement
  • a commitment to the ethics principles and values for public officials, as defined in the Public Sector Ethics Act 1994
  • the promotion of the rights of Employees and Students within the University, consistent with the Human Rights Act 2019
  • conduct which is professional and which has regard to the University's interests and policies
  • conduct which will not compromise either their position or the University's position
  • a commitment that the University will be regarded as the focal point of the professional life of Employees
  • a commitment that academic Employees will be available to ensure that the academic needs of Students are met
  • a commitment to encouraging the appropriate reporting of wrongdoing
  • the promotion of an environment that supports the pursuit of knowledge and truth.

The Code operates in conjunction with common and statute law and does not exclude or replace the rights and obligations of any individual under common and statute law. At any time, an Employee can lodge a Complaint with an external agency as appropriate.

4 Principles

In all professional actions, and in all dealings with University Members, Students and the community, individuals will be guided by the University's core values, University plans, policies and other documents in the Policy Library, the Public Sector Ethics Act 1994, and the public good.

The obligations contained in the Code are derived from the four fundamental ethical principles as set out in the Public Sector Ethics Act 1994. These principles are:

  • commitment to the system of government
  • integrity and impartiality
  • promoting the public good
  • accountability and transparency.

All individuals covered under the Code have obligations that directly relate to these principles. The obligations contained in this Policy define the standards of conduct required by all individuals.

4.1 Commitment to the system of government

This ethical principle assumes a system of government based on the rule of law and accountability.

4.1.1 Compliance with the law

All University Members have an obligation to uphold the system of government, observe the State and Commonwealth laws and to comply with the University Act, Policies and Procedures. In addition, they have an obligation when travelling abroad to respect and abide by the customs and laws of the host country.

4.2 Integrity and impartiality

This ethical principle recognises that University Members are placed in a position of trust and are expected to be honest, fair and impartial when carrying out their duties to maintain public confidence in the University, act in good faith and show respect towards all persons.

4.2.1 Respect for persons

The conduct of University Members in their dealings with others including Employees of the University, Students, external organisations and members of the community is covered within the integrity and impartiality ethical principle. The University of Southern Queensland supports the principles of procedural fairness and values social justice, equal opportunity and the provision of a safe and supportive working environment, and as such all University Members are required to treat others fairly, honestly and responsively, and with proper regard for their rights and obligations.

University Members are required to:

  • promote a high standard of respect for all Students, Employees and the general community;
  • treat other Employees and Students with courtesy and fairness;
  • be responsive and prompt in dealing with other Employees, Students and the general community;
  • when supervising Employees, create a fair and just working environment;
  • observe procedural fairness when engaged in Decision making;
  • not engage in discriminatory conduct on grounds such as gender, sex, race, disability, cultural background, religion, age or political conviction;
  • not engage in behaviour which may reasonably be perceived as Workplace Bullying and Harassment, intimidation or Harassment;
  • have respect for cultural differences; and
  • respect the privacy of others in the collection, use and access of Personal Information whilst performing University duties or activities.

4.2.2 Avoiding Conflicts of Interest

University Members must avoid situations in which their private interests, whether Pecuniary, personal or otherwise, might reasonably be thought to create a potential, perceived or actual Conflict of Interest with their duties to the University. There is an expectation that individuals must identify, declare and manage perceived, potential or actual Conflicts of Interest.

Any matter that could directly or indirectly compromise the performance of duties, or conflict with the University's interests must be immediately declared to the Employee's Supervisor or other senior Employee in the first instance and steps taken to resolve the conflict situation.

Where an Employee is unsure about the potential for a conflict, they should discuss the situation with their Supervisor or other senior Employee as appropriate. Further advice should be sought from the Director, Integrity and Professional Conduct. Where doubt exists, the Conflict of Interest must be declared. Where there is a clear case of conflict, the individual must withdraw from the situation giving rise to the conflict.

Situations that may generate a Conflict of Interest can arise out of:

  • personal/sexual relationships with Students
  • personal/sexual relationships with other Employees
  • personal/sexual relationships with persons with whom the University is dealing, for example contractors or tenderers
  • personal financial interests in matters which involve the University
  • outside employment that may compromise the integrity of the University
  • use of confidential Information obtained in the course of University duties
  • external activities and public comment, i.e. nominating for and contesting political elections.

Where a University Member has a concern regarding a perceived, potential or actual Conflict of Interest involving other members of the University community, this should be reported to their Supervisor, where appropriate. An Employee may also report their Conflict of Interest concerns through the Public Interest Disclosure Policy, or to the Director, Integrity and Professional Conduct.

The Employee Conflict of Interest Procedure provides further detailed Information on identifying, declaring and managing a Conflict of Interest.

4.2.3 Academic freedom

The obligations under 4.1 of this Policy are not intended to detract from the concepts of intellectual and academic freedom and the rights of free speech. It is recognised and acknowledged that guarantees of intellectual and academic freedom are essential to the proper functioning of University culture. These rights are linked to the responsibilities of University Members and Students to support the role of the University as a place of independent learning and thought where ideas may be put forward and opinions expressed freely. Academic freedom, however, carries with it the duty of University Members to use the freedom in a manner consistent with a responsible and honest search for and dissemination of knowledge and truth. This section should be read in conjunction with Section 4.2.7 Public Comment

4.2.4 Personal relationships

Employees must declare to the University, any situation which may require them to supervise, teach and/or Assess a Student with whom they currently or previously have had a personal, commercial, familial or other significant relationship. Where a relationship has created, or has the potential to create, a conflict, the Employee must immediately terminate any supervisory or Assessment role and make alternative arrangements for the supervision/Assessment of the Student's work. The Employee Conflict of Interest Procedure provides further Information.

Employees must also declare to the University any personal relationships with a current or prospective Employee which may give rise to a perceived, potential or actual Conflict of Interest. Examples of a Conflict of Interest may include:

  • influencing the recruitment, selection, appointment or promotion of Employees
  • impinging on employment related Decisions where one Employee is in a supervisory relationship to another.

Employees who become involved in a situation where a personal relationship is a source of perceived, potential or actual Conflict of Interest must declare this to their Supervisor in the first instance and withdraw from the situation giving rise to the conflict.

4.2.5 Privacy and confidentiality

University Members must respect the privacy of others and ensure that Personal Information is accessed and used only for University purposes and not disclosed except where authorised by legislation. Employees who have access to such Information have a duty to maintain the confidentiality, integrity and security of such Information, irrespective of the storage medium. Any actual or suspected misuse of private Information must be reported to a Supervisor or other appropriate person.

4.2.6 External activities and engagement with the community

University Members may be members of political parties, professional or other interests or charitable groups, and honest, fair and respectful engagement with the wider community is encouraged provided that the involvement does not conflict with their duties.

University Members must ensure that they disclose and manage any potential Conflicts of Interest that may arise as a result of any duties owed to other organisations, e.g. as a member of a board of directors of another organisation.

4.2.7 Public comment

Public comment by University Members in their capacity as private citizens is permitted provided that any such comment makes it clear that the view expressed is their own and not necessarily the view of the University. Where public comments are offered by academic or research Employees it is expected that such comment will normally lie within their field of expertise. Public comment on any University management issue must be made by the Vice-Chancellor or a person authorised by the Vice-Chancellor. Comment on matters concerning the University Council must be made only by the Chancellor or the Vice-Chancellor.

4.2.8 Receipt of benefits

University Members should discourage the receipt of any Gifts and/or Benefits in connection with their employment or position except where this may arise in an official capacity. In this case, all such Gifts and/or Benefits must be disclosed in accordance with the Gifts and Benefits Procedure.

University Members must disclose to the University any financial interest they may have in any organisation from which the University proposes to obtain services or equipment or enter into any contract which would result in a financial transaction.

University Members must ensure that where contracts are proposed through their area of expertise with external organisations, that any close personal relationship between an Employee and an officer of that organisation must be disclosed.

4.2.9 Research conduct

Employees undertaking or assisting research should do so in a manner consistent with intellectual honesty and the public interest. Research should be designed to enhance knowledge in the particular field of scholarship, it should employ sound methodology, and the accuracy and integrity of data should be safeguarded. Harm to experimental subjects must be avoided, and the ethical principle of voluntary Informed Consent to research participation by human subjects must be respected. The ideas, Information or intellectual contribution of others must be acknowledged appropriately and the intellectual property of others respected.

4.2.10 Outside work

Employees are permitted to engage in outside work, paid or unpaid, in accordance with the Outside Employment Undertaken by University Employees Procedure. Employees must ensure that applicable approvals are sought and obtained. Outside work must not be undertaken which may cause a Conflict of Interest with University duties.

4.3 Promoting the public good

This ethical principle recognises that University Members have an obligation to deliver programs and services of the highest quality to advance the good of the University community. It requires University Members to exercise proper care and attention in performing their duties, to carry out their duties to the best of their ability and to ensure that University resources are used economically and efficiently. This includes the following:

4.3.1 Carrying out of duties and standards of performance

All University Members will, where reasonably practicable:

  • carry out official Decisions and policies faithfully and impartially
  • carry out official directions and policies in a faithful and impartial manner
  • seek high standards in teaching, research, community service, administration and governance
  • create a safe work environment
  • adhere to professional codes of conduct where applicable
  • report fraudulent or Corrupt Conduct appropriately
  • act within the limits of their delegated authority
  • take reasonable steps to protect confidential Information
  • take reasonable steps to ensure compliance with the University's Intellectual Property Policy and subordinate Procedures
  • give due credit to the contributions of Employees and Students
  • Assess all Students' work fairly and objectively
  • maintain their professional skills and keep up to date in their area of expertise
  • ensure they are informed of University policies and guidelines
  • value and seek to achieve excellence in service delivery to the University community.

4.4 Accountability and transparency

This principle requires University Members to exercise proper diligence, care and attention in their work with a commitment to managing resources in an effective and accountable way and operating within a framework of mutual obligation and shared responsibility.

4.4.1 Duty of care

Proper care and attention should be exercised when undertaking activities, in particular where others will rely on the advice or Information offered.

Employees have a duty to take reasonable care and to avoid causing harm to others and must follow safe working practices and actively promote safe working conditions. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that activities within their areas are undertaken with due diligence for health and safety of Employees, Students and others.

Any Employee who threatens, harasses or abuses a family or household member at, or from, the workplace may be subject to disciplinary action. If an Employee is observed or suspected of perpetrating Domestic and Family Violence from the workplace, Supervisors have a responsibility to enact appropriate action.

4.4.2 University resources

University Members have a responsibility to ensure that University resources are used efficiently and effectively and for legitimate purposes and waste should be avoided.

Email and internet activity by Employees must be conducted in a professional manner for legitimate University business and with due regard and respect for other persons. It is recognised that Employees occasionally may need to use University resources for private purposes, e.g. making the occasional telephone call. Employees must ensure such use is kept to a minimum.

Employees must comply with the Financial Management Practice Manual on financial and asset management.

Equipment and materials should be treated with care and secured against theft.

Employees must at all times act within the limits of their delegated authority.

4.4.3 Alcohol/drug abuse

University Members must ensure that personal use of alcohol or other drugs does not affect the performance of their duties or the safety and well-being of others and must comply with all provisions and requirements of the University's Alcohol and Drugs on University Sites Procedure.

4.5 Non-compliance with this Code

The Code regulates the behaviour of University Members and also forms part of each Employee's employment conditions.

Where a University member is aware of or suspects a breach of this Code, they must immediately report the breach in accordance with University Policy Instruments. The University Member is able to withdraw the Complaint. However, the University may be required to investigate as required by legislation.

Failure to comply with the Code's provisions will be managed and dealt with under the relevant University Policy Instruments and employment contracts as applicable. A failure to comply with this Code may result in disciplinary action.

Individuals other than Employees who do not comply with this Code may have their association with the University terminated, or have their right or access to the University services, facilities or infrastructure revoked.

Some breaches may also have consequences for individuals under criminal or civil jurisdictions.

The University may take action against a person(s) making a frivolous or vexatious Complaint. Any Employee found to have made such a Complaint may be subject to the University's disciplinary Procedures according to the provisions of their relevant employment contract.

5 References

Nil.

6 Schedules

This policy must be read in conjunction with its subordinate schedules as provided in the table below.

7 Policy Information

Accountable Officer

Vice-Chancellor

Responsible Officer

Director (Integrity and Professional Conduct)

Policy Type

Governance Policy

Policy Suite

Alcohol and Drugs on University Sites Procedure

Categories of Outside Employment - Conditions and Entitlements Schedule

Disciplinary Action for Misconduct or Serious Misconduct Procedure

Employee Health and Wellbeing Procedure

Gifts and Benefits Procedure

Outside Employment Undertaken by University Employees Procedure

Subordinate Schedules

Approved Date

14/11/2023

Effective Date

14/11/2023

Review Date

3/4/2024

Relevant Legislation

Anti-Discrimination Act 1991

Corporations Act 2001

Crime and Corruption Act 2001

Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000

Higher Education Support Act 2003

Human Rights Act 2019

Information Privacy Act 2009

Integrity Act 2009

Public Governance, Performance and Accountability (Consequential and Transitional Provisions) Act 2014

Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010

Public Sector Ethics Act 1994

Right to Information Act 2009

Enterprise Agreement

Policy Exceptions

Policy Exceptions Register

Related Policies

Academic Freedom and Freedom of Speech Policy

Acceptable use of ICT Resources Policy

Council Conflict of Interest Policy and Procedure

Employee Complaints and Grievances Policy

Employee Equity and Diversity Policy

Fraud and Corruption Management Policy

Intellectual Property Policy

Media Engagement Policy

Public Interest Disclosure Policy

Research Code of Conduct Policy

Student General Conduct Policy

Student Grievance Resolution Policy

Work Health and Safety Policy

Related Procedures

Children on Campus Procedure

Commercialisation of Intellectual Property Procedure

Discrimination, Bullying and Harassment Complaints against Employees Procedure

Employee Conflict of Interest Procedure

Employee Domestic and Family Violence Support Procedure

Employee Grievance Procedure

Intellectual Property Procedure

Media Engagement Procedure

Prevention of Discrimination, Bullying and Harassment Procedure

Smoke-Free Procedure

Student General Misconduct Procedure

Student Grievance Resolution Procedure

Working with Children Procedure

Related forms, publications and websites

Charter of University Governance

Committees of Council

Conflict of Interest Website

Employee Complaints and Grievances Form

Feedback, Complaints and Appeals

Financial Management Practice Manual

Definitions

Terms defined in the Definitions Dictionary

Assess

The process used to determine Student's achievement of expected Learning Outcomes and may include a range of written and oral methods and practice or demonstration....moreThe process used to determine Student's achievement of expected Learning Outcomes and may include a range of written and oral methods and practice or demonstration.

Assessment

The process of evaluating the extent to which Students have achieved the Learning Outcomes of a Course....moreThe process of evaluating the extent to which Students have achieved the Learning Outcomes of a Course.

Complaint

A Complaint is an “expression of dissatisfaction made to or about the University, related to its products, services, staff or the handling of a complaint, where a response or resolution is explicitly or implicitly expected or legally required”....moreA Complaint is an “expression of dissatisfaction made to or about the University, related to its products, services, staff or the handling of a complaint, where a response or resolution is explicitly or implicitly expected or legally required”.

Conflict of Interest

If a University Member has an interest that conflicts or may conflict with the discharge of the University Member's duties the University Member should Declare the nature of the interest and the conflict to the University Member's Supervisor as soon as practicable after the relevant facts come to the University Member's knowledge and must not take action or further action relating to a...moreIf a University Member has an interest that conflicts or may conflict with the discharge of the University Member's duties the University Member should Declare the nature of the interest and the conflict to the University Member's Supervisor as soon as practicable after the relevant facts come to the University Member's knowledge and must not take action or further action relating to a matter that is or may be affected by the conflict until authorised. An Executive Leader may direct a University Member to resolve a conflict or possible conflict between an interest of the University Member and the University Member's duties. A reference to an interest or to a Conflict of Interest is a reference to those matters within their ordinary meaning under the general law, and, in relation to an interest, the definition in the Acts Interpretation Act 1954, Schedule 1, does not apply. A Conflict of Interest will arise when a University Member's Private Interests conflict with their duty to the University or to serve the public interest as a University Member. The risk of having a conflict of interest increases where a University Member's responsibilities include the authority to make decisions. A conflict of interest may be potential, perceived or actual - when a University Member is in a role where future decision making may be influenced by their Private Interests if a certain condition is fulfilled, they have a potential conflict of interest; a perceived conflict of interest arises where it appears that decisions a University Member make in the course of their University employment may be influenced by their Private Interests, whether or not this is in fact the case; an actual conflict of interest exists where a University Member's actions could be unduly, improperly or excessively influenced by their Private Interests. Serious misconduct can occur when a conflict of interest is concealed, understated, mismanaged or abused.

Corrupt Conduct

Defined in section 15 of the Crime and Corruption Act 2001....moreDefined in section 15 of the Crime and Corruption Act 2001.

Decision

A determination made by an Employee, contractor or other authorised delegate in the course of their duties on behalf of the University....moreA determination made by an Employee, contractor or other authorised delegate in the course of their duties on behalf of the University.

Delegate (noun)

Delegate (noun) means the officer, Employee or committee of the University to whom, or to which, a delegation of authority has been made under this Policy....moreDelegate (noun) means the officer, Employee or committee of the University to whom, or to which, a delegation of authority has been made under this Policy.

Domestic and Family Violence

Domestic and Family Violence behaviour includes, but is not limited to, physical or sexual violence, emotional or psychological abuse, financial abuse or any behaviour that is threatening or coercive or in any other way controls or dominates an individual which causes safety or well-being concerns for that individual....moreDomestic and Family Violence behaviour includes, but is not limited to, physical or sexual violence, emotional or psychological abuse, financial abuse or any behaviour that is threatening or coercive or in any other way controls or dominates an individual which causes safety or well-being concerns for that individual.

Employee

A person employed by the University and whose conditions of employment are covered by the Enterprise Agreement and includes persons employed on a continuing, fixed term or casual basis. Employees also include senior Employees whose conditions of employment are covered by a written agreement or contract with the University....moreA person employed by the University and whose conditions of employment are covered by the Enterprise Agreement and includes persons employed on a continuing, fixed term or casual basis. Employees also include senior Employees whose conditions of employment are covered by a written agreement or contract with the University.

Gift and/or Benefit

A Gift and/or Benefit is: the transfer of property or other benefit without recompense or for a consideration substantially less than full consideration; or a loan of property made on a permanent, or an indefinite, basis; anything of value offered in the course of employment other than normal employment entitlements that is received or given by a University Member when they are acting in t...moreA Gift and/or Benefit is: the transfer of property or other benefit without recompense or for a consideration substantially less than full consideration; or a loan of property made on a permanent, or an indefinite, basis; anything of value offered in the course of employment other than normal employment entitlements that is received or given by a University Member when they are acting in their official capacity. Gifts and/or benefits include tangible items of lasting value and intangible items of no lasting value (including hospitality).

Harassment

Harassment includes, but is not limited to, treating a person less favourably because of a person's characteristic such as their sex, race, age, disability, sexuality, religious or political belief or activity, or some other characteristic protected under anti-discrimination laws. Harassment may include Bullying a person and may also breach human rights legislation....moreHarassment includes, but is not limited to, treating a person less favourably because of a person's characteristic such as their sex, race, age, disability, sexuality, religious or political belief or activity, or some other characteristic protected under anti-discrimination laws. Harassment may include Bullying a person and may also breach human rights legislation.

Information

Any collection of data that is processed, analysed, interpreted, organised, classified or communicated in order to serve a useful purpose, present facts or represent knowledge in any medium or form. This includes presentation in electronic (digital), print, audio, video, image, graphical, cartographic, physical sample, textual or numerical form....moreAny collection of data that is processed, analysed, interpreted, organised, classified or communicated in order to serve a useful purpose, present facts or represent knowledge in any medium or form. This includes presentation in electronic (digital), print, audio, video, image, graphical, cartographic, physical sample, textual or numerical form.

Media

All print, radio, television and electronic Media including the internet and allied distribution channels. Includes social Media which are works of user-created video, audio, text or multimedia that are published and shared in a social environment, such as a blog, podcast, forum, wiki, or video hosting site. More broadly, social Media refers to any online technology that enables people...moreAll print, radio, television and electronic Media including the internet and allied distribution channels. Includes social Media which are works of user-created video, audio, text or multimedia that are published and shared in a social environment, such as a blog, podcast, forum, wiki, or video hosting site. More broadly, social Media refers to any online technology that enables people to publish, converse and share content online.

Non-Pecuniary Interest

Does not involve a financial component but may arise from personal or family relationship or involvement in sporting, social or cultural activities. It can include but is not limited to any favour or prejudice from friendship, animosity or other personal involvement that could lead to actual or potential bias in the exercise of judgement or discretion or the making of a Decision....moreDoes not involve a financial component but may arise from personal or family relationship or involvement in sporting, social or cultural activities. It can include but is not limited to any favour or prejudice from friendship, animosity or other personal involvement that could lead to actual or potential bias in the exercise of judgement or discretion or the making of a Decision.

Pecuniary Interest

Involves an actual or potential financial gain or loss. For example: Existing proprietary, contractual and employment rights Existing liabilities / obligations Interests created by, in, or under a decision or transaction effected by the University Indirect economic relationships (share price value) Expectancies (future economic interests, employment opportunities etc.)...moreInvolves an actual or potential financial gain or loss. For example: Existing proprietary, contractual and employment rights Existing liabilities / obligations Interests created by, in, or under a decision or transaction effected by the University Indirect economic relationships (share price value) Expectancies (future economic interests, employment opportunities etc.)

Personal Information

Is information or an opinion, including information or an opinion forming part of a database, whether true or not, and whether recorded in a material form or not, about an individual whose identity is apparent, or can reasonably be ascertained, from the information or opinion....moreIs information or an opinion, including information or an opinion forming part of a database, whether true or not, and whether recorded in a material form or not, about an individual whose identity is apparent, or can reasonably be ascertained, from the information or opinion.

Policy

A high level strategic directive that establishes a principle based approach on a subject. Policy is operationalised through Procedures that give instructions and set out processes to implement a Policy....moreA high level strategic directive that establishes a principle based approach on a subject. Policy is operationalised through Procedures that give instructions and set out processes to implement a Policy.

Policy Instrument

A Policy Instrument refers to an instrument that is governed by the Policy framework. These include Policies, Procedures and Schedules....moreA Policy Instrument refers to an instrument that is governed by the Policy framework. These include Policies, Procedures and Schedules.

Procedure

An operational instruction that sets out the process to operationalise a Policy....moreAn operational instruction that sets out the process to operationalise a Policy.

Student

A person who is enrolled in a UniSQ Upskill Course or who is admitted to an Award Program or Non-Award Program offered by the University and is: currently enrolled in one or more Courses or study units; or not currently enrolled but is on an approved Leave of Absence or whose admission has not been cancelled....moreA person who is enrolled in a UniSQ Upskill Course or who is admitted to an Award Program or Non-Award Program offered by the University and is: currently enrolled in one or more Courses or study units; or not currently enrolled but is on an approved Leave of Absence or whose admission has not been cancelled.

University

The term 'University' or 'UniSQ' means the University of Southern Queensland....moreThe term 'University' or 'UniSQ' means the University of Southern Queensland.

University Members

Persons who include: Employees of the University whose conditions of employment are covered by the UniSQ Enterprise Agreement whether full time or fractional, continuing, fixed-term or casual, including senior Employees whose conditions of employment are covered by a written agreement or contract with the University; members of the University Council and University Committees; visiti...morePersons who include: Employees of the University whose conditions of employment are covered by the UniSQ Enterprise Agreement whether full time or fractional, continuing, fixed-term or casual, including senior Employees whose conditions of employment are covered by a written agreement or contract with the University; members of the University Council and University Committees; visiting, honorary and adjunct appointees; volunteers who contribute to University activities or who act on behalf of the University; and individuals who are granted access to University facilities or who are engaged in providing services to the University, such as contractors or consultants, where applicable.

Enterprise Agreement

University of Southern Queensland Enterprise Agreement 2023-2026....moreUniversity of Southern Queensland Enterprise Agreement 2023-2026.

Workplace Bullying and Harassment

Workplace Bullying and Harassment, under the Fair Work Act 2009, occurs where an individual or group of individuals repeatedly behaves unreasonably towards an Employee or group of Employees at work, and that behaviour creates a risk to health and safety. Within this definition: Repeated Behaviour refers to the persistent nature of the behaviour and can range in behaviours over time. Unre...moreWorkplace Bullying and Harassment, under the Fair Work Act 2009, occurs where an individual or group of individuals repeatedly behaves unreasonably towards an Employee or group of Employees at work, and that behaviour creates a risk to health and safety. Within this definition: Repeated Behaviour refers to the persistent nature of the behaviour and can range in behaviours over time. Unreasonable Behaviour is behaviour that a reasonable person, having regard to the circumstances, may see as unreasonable. This may include but is not limited to behaviour that is victimising, humiliating, intimidating or threatening. A Risk to Health and Safety means the possibility of danger to health and safety, and is not confined to actual danger to health and safety

Definitions that relate to this policy only

Official Duties

Job requirements as stated in an Employee's position description, duty statement or contract of employment.

Supervisor

Any person responsible for leading the activities or others. In the context of this Policy, a Supervisor includes Employees at any classification level or title who have responsibilities for leading, managing or supervising work teams and/or individual Employees.

University Responsibilities

University Responsibilities include administrative obligations derived from:

  • Financial Accountability Act 2009
  • Financial and Performance Management Standard 2019
  • University of Southern Queensland Financial Management Practice Manual
  • Right to Information Act 2009
  • Crime and Corruption Act 2001
  • Judicial Review Act 1991
  • Libraries Act 1988
  • University of Southern Queensland Act 1998
  • Queensland Procurement Policy, and
  • Individual's contract of employment.

They also include ethics obligations derived from:

  • Public Sector Ethics Act 1994

Performance obligations are derived from instructions for the task in hand.

Keywords

Conduct, Behaviour, Code, Conflict of Interest

Record No

13/279PL

Complying with the law and observing Policy and Procedure is a condition of working and/or studying at the University.

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