j002023 seqwater code of conduct documents... · seqwater code of conduct page 8 3.1 workplace...

Our Code of Conduct

Version 2 Dated 16/04/14

Seqwater CODE OF CONDUCT PAGE 1

Seqwater’s vision – healthy communities, prosperous region – guides our journey as a business. Our purpose as an organisation is ‘Partnering to enhance the productivity of the region’s water supply assets by delivering safe, secure water and catchment services as required by customers and communities’. To reach our vision and deliver on our purpose, we have strategies that guide what we do, and values that guide how we do it.

Being a statutory authority, the community rightly expects the highest standards of performance, integrity, accountability and professionalism. We will meet these obligations by demonstrating our values in everything we do.

Our Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behaviour expected of all of us – employees, contractors and Board members. Our Code is one way of putting our values into practice and guiding our response in dealing with any ethical dilemmas or confl ict of interest we may face in our work.

Read our Code and be clear on what is expected of you. Follow our Code when undertaking your work or any activity that refl ects upon Seqwater and encourage your colleagues to do the same.

If you have any questions or do not understand any content in this booklet please discuss them with your manager. It is important that you understand your obligations as an employee of Seqwater.

Our Code of Conduct

We work safe We deliver We work together

We continually improve

We each make a difference



General principles

Who this Code applies to

We expect the Board, all employees, contractors and consultants to understand and followour Code. We take our Code seriously and breaches can result in disciplinary action, including dismissal.

If in doubt, ask. It’s safe to speak up

If you have a question or concern, don’t just sit there. You can contact your manager, another manager, a general manager, People & Culture or the CEO.

There may be times when you don’t feel you can speak up. If you want to stay anonymous, you can contact Your-Call directly. This is an independent company where you can report securely, anonymously and confi dentially 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

We commit that anyone who, in good faith, speaks up, will not be subject to retaliation, retribution or other recriminations.

A colleague from a different team acted in a way I believe could breach the Code.

What should I do?

Q

A

Try talking to the person involved, or if you’re not comfortable, then you should talk to your manager, or

another manager, or People & Culture.

Each of us has the right, and the responsibility, to raise issues even if they don’t directly affect us.



1.1 Safe and healthy workplace

Safety is our number one priority. At Seqwater we all speak up, get involved, and follow the procedures. Non compliance with safety policies, procedures or instructions will not be tolerated. Unsafe behaviour is not to be tolerated!

In doing so we:

1.1.1 Perform work safely

1.1.2 Comply with our Work Health and Safety Policy and all procedures

1.1.3 Immediately stop any work that appears unsafe

1.1.4 Dress consistently with our position, job and work health and safety requirements

1.1.5 Use the personal protective equipment provided

1.1.6 Report any hazards

1.1.7 Ensure our fi tness for duty, and the safety, health and welfare of ourselves and others in the workplace, whether co-workers or stakeholders

1.1.8 Report to work fi t and able to perform our role

1.1.9 Declare any prescription medication that may infl uence our ability to be fi t for work

1.1.10 Are aware of emergency procedures and ensure that visitors are familiar with these procedures

1.1.11 Report to your manager immediately any accident, injury, illness, fatigue or any factor that may compromise safe working conditions, including the need to take prescription medication.

We never:

1.1.12 Ignore any safety issue

1.1.13 Undertake work that we are not trained for, competent in or medically fi t to undertake

1.1.14 Undertake work impaired by alcohol or drugs, including prescription medication

1.1.15 Purposely interfere with or misuse anything provided for work health and Safety

1.1.16 Allow our colleagues to be injured.

1.2 Drugs and alcohol

Substance abuse is not tolerated. Substance use can directly impact the health and safety of our employees. Indirectly it can impact the safety of the general public and our stakeholders. At all times, Seqwater is a drug- and alcohol-free work environment.

We work safe

To meet KPIs, targets or deadlines, sometimes I cut corners when it comes to safety procedures. It’s pretty minor and we’re all experienced, so that’s ok, isn’t it?

QAIt’s not ok. Safety must never be compromised, no matter

what. If you’re worried about meeting your KPIs, talk to your manager, or if you don’t feel comfortable doing that,

or you can’t get their attention, contact Work Health & Safety, a general manager or People & Culture.



We deliver

2.1 Work performance

In performing our roles we are all expected to bring our expertise and best qualities to work. This means complying with relevant laws and regulations, policies, procedures and instructions.

In doing so we:

2.1.1 Comply with all Seqwater policies and procedures, and all laws, professional standards, industrial awards and agreements and employment contracts

2.1.2 Consistently perform work to the expected standard or higher

2.1.3 Follow all reasonable and lawful directions

2.1.4 Are mindful of Seqwater’s brand and reputation

2.1.5 Ensure that anything we state about ourselves or our colleagues is true and correct

2.1.6 Seek to achieve excellence in all we do

2.1.7 Attend work reliably and on time

2.1.8 Acknowledge all intellectual property such as design or ideas created in the course of our employment remains property of Seqwater.

We will never:

2.1.9 Act unlawfully including behaviours such as stealing

2.1.10 Intentionally damage Seqwater’s interests, reputation, or employee relations

2.1.11 Disclose any confi dential information, whether it relates to individuals or Seqwater. This applies during and after employment with Seqwater

2.1.12 Misappropriate public funds

2.1.13 Have personal gain from Seqwater information

2.1.14 Access Seqwater information for personal use.

2.2 Financial sustainability

Being a statutory authority means we are entrusted with public funds to develop and deliver services to the community on behalf of the Government. We must seek value for money and use suppliers that meet our quality, performance and sustainability requirements.

We have a responsibility to:

2.2.1 Deliver services fairly, courteously, effectively, and to ensure we use resources effi ciently and economically

2.2.2 Treat complaints from clients and the community seriously and respond to constructive feedback as an opportunity for improvement

2.2.3 Ensure that we act consistently with the approved delegations

2.2.4 Supply all relevant information to auditors

2.2.5 Report suspicious transactions

2.2.6 Comply with relevant internal policies and relevant legislation, including the State Procurement Policy.



We deliver

We never:

2.2.7 Knowingly spend outside our delegation

2.2.8 Ignore non-compliance

2.2.9 Create a relationship with suppliers, fi nancial or otherwise, that may infl uence our judgement or create the perception of unfairness.

2.3 Intellectual property

Seqwater must take care of its intellectual property (IP) and respect the rights of others’ IP. Any personal gain or non-offi cial use of Seqwater information is not okay. All IP, such as designs, ideas or trademarks created in the course of your employment, remains the property of Seqwater. This may apply even if the material was developed in your own time or outside of Seqwater premises. If you want to use this information after leaving Seqwater or outside of Seqwater during your employment, you’ll need written permission.

We will:

2.3.1 Protect our IP by identifying it and acting to secure our rights

2.3.2 Recognise intellectual property as an asset

2.3.3 Acknowledge the creator of our intellectual property

2.3.4 Obtain written consent before using someone else’s intellectual property.

We never:

2.3.5 Misuse or intentionally infringe the intellectual property rights of other people

2.3.6 Disclose our intellectual property to any third party without the written consent of Seqwater.

I have been working on an invention in my shed in the back yard. Does this mean that the invention belongs to Seqwater?

Q

A

Generally not but it will depend on whether the information or expertise that you are using to build

your invention has been obtained through the course of your employment with Seqwater. Discuss it with your manager or general manager and they will let

you know if the invention is part of Seqwater’s IP.



3.1 Workplace behaviour and personal conduct

We have a responsibility to always conduct and present ourselves in a professional manner, and demonstrate respect for all persons, whether fellow employees, stakeholders or members of the public. We work in a respectful and safe environment free from harassment, discrimination and bullying. Seqwater has zero tolerance for these behaviours.

We will:

3.1.1 Treat employees, contractors, stakeholders and customers with courtesy and respect, be appropriate in our relationships with them, and recognise that others have the right to hold views which may differ from our own

3.1.2 Ensure our conduct refl ects our commitment to a workplace that is inclusive and free from harassment

3.1.3 Ensure our private conduct maintains the integrity of Seqwater and our ability to perform our duties

3.1.4 Foster a work environment free from harassment, bullying or discrimination

3.1.5 Speak up and inform a person if you are upset by their actions or behaviour, explain why and ask the person to stop

3.1.6 Ensure that employment-related decisions, including recruitment, promotion, training and development, compensation and termination of employment are based only on merit and business considerations.

We never:

3.1.7 Discriminate, harass or bully anyone at work, during out-of-hours activities or by using social media

3.1.8 Behave in a manner that causes disadvantage, discomfort, embarrassment or offence to others in the workplace, during out-of-hours activities or by using social media

3.1.9 Start or spread rumours that may harm someone’s reputation.

We work together

All this talk of bullying and harassment – can’t anyone take a joke anymore?

Q

AIt’s great to have fun at work. To keep a happy workplace, all of us must be mindful of our work mates’ different

beliefs, cultures and backgrounds. Jokes are not okay if they cause offence – even if the joke teller didn’t mean to.

There’s no need to tell racist or sexist jokes. And there’s no need for ‘pranks’ or other activities that could cause

someone to feel alienated or mistreated.

Think before you act. Check the ‘Grey Areas’ section of our Code. And speak up if you see or hear something

that’s not right.



3.2 Government and community

Good stakeholder relationships are important to our business, so we engage with our stakeholders at the earliest opportunity and treat them professionally and with integrity. Community participation is crucial to the development of quality planning and decision making processes.

We have a responsibility, where appropriate and in accordance with our offi cial duties to:

3.2.1 Listen and respond to issues and concerns raised by individuals or communities

3.2.2 Engage with stakeholders to assist in the development and implementation of policy and projects

3.2.3 Assist in raising community awareness about public issues and policies

3.2.4 Treat stakeholders with courtesy and respect, even when we have differing views or approaches

3.2.5 Clearly explain the scope of input or infl uence they can or will have

3.2.6 Listen to and genuinely consider the stakeholder concerns and expectations

3.2.7 Reply to all correspondence, calls and incidents promptly.

3.3 Public statements

Commenting on Seqwater is a matter for the Chairman and Chief Executive Offi cer (CEO), not employees. Unless prior authorisation has been given, we will not comment to the media on Seqwater or government policy matters.

Where providing factual information to the public on government policy is part of our offi cial duties and responsibilities, we will ensure that information is appropriately authorised, and that we properly represent Seqwater policy and administration in its intended manner.

Like any other citizen, we have the right to contribute to public discussions on community and social issues in our private capacity.

We will:

3.3.1 Take reasonable steps to ensure that any comment we make will be understood as representing our personal views, not those of Seqwater or government

3.3.2 Maintain the confi dentiality of information that we have access to due to our roles, that is not publicly available

3.3.3 Inform our manager if we are contacted by the media

3.3.4 Seek permission for any public comment on behalf of Seqwater from a general manager or CEO

3.3.5 Use social media appropriately and responsibly.

We never:

3.3.6 Make unauthorised public statements on issues related to Seqwater’s business

3.3.7 Make any comment to the media without authorisation from a general manager or the CEO.

We work together



4.1 Excellence, innovation and continuous performance improvement

The capacity of Seqwater to deliver to the community depends on an innovative and creative workforce, and a commitment to continuously improve the performance of Seqwater and ourselves. We strive to do things safer, smarter, cheaper. We challenge the status quo to ensure that we are improving in what we do.

We each have a responsibility, having regard to our own roles, to:

4.1.1 Actively participate in performance related discussions and processes, including induction, performance planning and development

4.1.2 Actively contribute to developing and improving business planning and processes, including innovative ways of service delivery

4.1.3 Actively seek feedback to improvement in our own performance, and provide constructive feedback to support improved business performance

4.1.4 Maintain and develop our professional skills and knowledge

4.1.5 In consultation with our managers, take reasonable steps to identify and apply for development opportunities relevant to our current roles and responsibilities

4.1.6 Value and seek continuous improvement and innovation

4.1.7 Value and deliver excellence in service delivery

4.1.8 Seek to improve and be adaptable and positive towards change.

We never:

4.1.9 Ignore opportunities for improvement

4.1.10 Stop striving to improve our own performance, or the performance of the business

4.1.11 Stop colleagues from sharing new ideas to improve current processes.




5.1 Integrity & Impartiality

We all need to ensure that we act with integrity and impartiality all of the time. We have an obligation to always do what’s best for the business and our stakeholders.

When you are in a situation in which competing loyalties could cause you to pursue a personal benefi t for you, your friends or your family at the expense of Seqwater or our stakeholders, you may be faced with a confl ict of interest.

A confl ict of interest involves a confl ict between our duty and responsibility at work and our personal interests. The confl ict may arise from a range of factors including our personal relationships, our employment outside of Seqwater, our membership of special interest groups, or our ownership of shares, companies or property.

As a public sector employee, we may also experience confl icts of interest between our public sector ethics and our professional codes of ethics (for example as a lawyer) or with our personal beliefs or opinions.

Having a confl ict of interest is not unusual and it is not a wrong-doing in itself. However, failing to disclose and manage the confl ict appropriately is inappropriate.

As public sector employees we are committed to demonstrating our impartiality and integrity in fulfi lling our responsibilities and as such we will:

5.1.1 Act in a fair, honest and respectful manner when engaging with internal and external parties

5.1.2 Always disclose a personal interest that could, now or in the future, be seen as infl uencing the performance of our duties. This will be done in accordance with the Confl ict of Interest Procedure. Ensure any confl ict of interest is resolved in the public interest


I have shares in a family business which is tendering for a contract with Seqwater. Do I need to let anyone at Seqwater know?

Q

AYes, you should advise your manager that you have shares in a business that is tendering for a Seqwater

contract, prior to submitting the tender. This is considered a confl ict of interest, as you have the potential to gain money if Seqwater enters into the contract with your

family’s business. In this instance, you should declare your interest and you will be removed from any decision

making position or ability to infl uence the process.



5.1.3 Actively participate with Seqwater to develop and implement resolution strategies for any confl ict of interest

5.1.4 Provide advice that is objective, independent, apolitical and impartial.

We never:

5.1.5 Engage in any process or decision that creates a confl ict of interest without declaring the actual or perceived confl ict of interest to your manager

5.1.6 Engage in fraudulent behaviour.


What is fraud?Q

AFraud is dishonestly obtaining a benefi t, or causing a loss by deception or other means. Examples of fraudulent behaviour include:

• An employee obtains employment under falsepretences by falsely claiming to have the requiredqualifi cations

• An employee steals company resources whichcould include money, cab charges or Seqwaterproperty

• An employee provides false information on theirtimesheet.

I am the president of a local amateur football club which is seeking sponsorship from Seqwater. Is that a confl ict?

Q

This may be seen as a confl ict of interest, so you are best to check with your manager to

determine if there is a confl ict and what you need to do to manage the situation.

A



5.2 Resources We all need resources to do our jobs, such as property, equipment, vehicles, information systems and offi ce consumables. We are accountable for all resources that we use in the course of our duties.

We will:

5.2.1 Be economical, and avoid waste and extravagant use of Seqwater resources for business purposes

5.2.2 Use Seqwater resources in accordance with offi cial policies and procedures

5.2.3 Purchase, manage and care for Seqwater resources in accordance with established policies, procedures and guidelines

5.2.4 R esponsibly use human assets such as corporate knowledge and intellectual property as public resources

5.2.5 Ensure that third parties follow established guidelines

5.2.6 Record work time accurately.

We never:

5.2.7 Intentionally damage or destroy resources

5.2.8 Misuse information systems

5.2.9 Access unauthorised material or content that is offensive, defamatory, sexist, or inappropriate

5.2.10 Permit unauthorised access to a Seqwater site.


I have to work from a regional offi ce tomorrow, so this afternoon I will collect a pool vehicle so I can drive straight there in the morning. Once I get the car I am going to pick up my son from soccer practice and head to Chermside to do some late night shopping and pick up some groceries for dinner. Surely that’s ok?

QNo, Seqwater has pool vehicles available so that

staff can move between their place of work and other offi ces/sites so that they do not have to use their own

vehicles, taxis or public transport. Pool vehicles are not to be used for private use, if you take a pool vehicle

home for the night (prior to returning it to Seqwater) you must drive the vehicle straight home and then use

your own personal vehicle to run errands.

A

Can I use my work computer for personal internet and email?

QWhile we understand there are some circumstances

that mean you will access your work computer to undertake personal matters (eg paying a bill online),

generally work computers should not be accessed for personal use.

A



5.3 Gifts, bribes or incentives

We don’t offer, pay, solicit or accept bribes or inducements. That’s not how we do business. If someone makes you such an offer, tell your manager straight away.

A gift refers to the voluntary transfer of property or the giving of a benefi t (including hospitality) to a Seqwater employee who is representing the interests of Seqwater. A gift may be (but is not limited to):

• A present received by a supplier or potential supplier;

• A meal provided by a supplier or potential supplier;

• An invitation to a sporting event or concert;

• A product or service received at a price that is less than generally charged to the public from someoneconnected with the organisation; and

• A free interstate trip to view a potential supplier’s product.

We always:

5.3.1 Before giving or accepting a gift ensure that it is acceptable within the terms of Seqwater’s Gifts and Benefi ts Policy

5.3.2 Register gifts or benefi ts in accordance with the Gifts and Benefi ts Policy.

We never:

5.3.3 Offer, pay or accept bribes or inducements

5.3.4 Offer, give, seek, accept or appear to accept a gift, an entertainment or a benefi t that may:

• Infl uence (or be able to be perceived as infl uencing) our ability to make a decision

• Create a confl ict of interest

• Damage business relationships or create an obligation of any sort.

5.4 Accountability

Personal accountability is being responsible for yourself and the things that you do. It’s also about being mindful how your decisions, words and behaviour can impact others.

We will:

5.4.1 Focus on quality outcomes

5.4.2 Commit to our own growth and development

5.4.3 Manage risk and speak up if we can’t

5.4.4 Commit to targets and do our absolute best to achieve them

5.4.5 Admit to, and learn from, our mistakes

5.4.6 Commit to fi nding solutions.

We never:

5.4.7 Say ‘it’s not my problem’

5.4.8 Adopt a victim-mentality.




5.5 Use and disclosure of offi cial information

The public has a right to know the information that is created and used by Seqwater on their behalf. This right is balanced by necessary protections for certain information, including personal information.

Information privacy legislation protects against the misuse of personal information and we have an obligation to ensure the lawful collection and handling of personal information.

We will:

5.5.1 Treat offi cial information with care and use it only for the purpose for which it was collected or authorised

5.5.2 Store offi cial information securely, and limit access to those persons requiring it for legitimate purposes

5.5.3 Continue to respect the confi dentiality of offi cial information when we leave our employment with Seqwater.

We never:

5.5.4 Disclose confi dential information to other parties including friends, family and colleagues who do not have legitimate access to the information

5.5.5 Use confi dential or privileged information to further personal interests.


I have read and understood our Code. I understand I am

required to follow it and to encourage my work mates

to do the same. I will speak up if I have a question or if I

think something is not right.

I agree



Handling the Grey Areas

No code can address all circumstances …

But these questions can help you make the right decision.If the answer to any of these is ‘no’, then do it differently. If you have concerns about someone else’s behaviour then it’s time to speak up.

Seqwater values Personal ethics

Our reputation

Is the behaviour in line with Seqwater’s values?

Would my family and friends think that this behaviour is okay?

Is it safe?

Is it honest?

Is it legal?

Would the behaviour look okay on the evening news or on the front

page of the newspaper?

We work safe

We deliver

We work together



?

?

?

?

?

?

Is it in the best interests of Seqwater?

Does this course of action refl ect well on Seqwater?

Would I feel comfortable if my actions were disclosed to the public?


Key policies, procedures and documents• Confl ict of Interest Procedure

• Public Interest Disclosure Procedure

• Anti Discrimination, Harassment and Bullying Prevention Procedure

• Discipline Procedure

• Grievance Procedure

• Personal Relationships in Employment Procedure

• Engaging in Outside Employment Procedure

• Entertainment and Hospitality Policy

• Purchasing Card Policy

• Delegations and Authorisations Manual

• Gifts and Benefi ts Policy

• Procurement Policy

• Mobile Plant and Fleet Policy

• WHS Policy

• Fraud Prevention and Detection Policy

• Clothing Procedure

• Public Sector Ethics Act


For help or adviceIn case of a breach or suspected breach or for more information contact:

Your manager, another manager or a general manager

People & Culture or [email protected]

The CEO

Your-Call (anonymous reports of suspected breaches)telephone 1300 798 101 or www.your-call.com.au and quote SEQW2007.

Employee Assistance Program on 1800 808 374 orwww.assureprograms.com.au


j002023 seqwater code of conduct documents... · seqwater code of conduct page 8 3.1 workplace...

Documents