The NSW Government is committed to the highest standards of probity in public administration. To achieve this goal, agencies need appropriate codes of conduct, reflecting the statements of organisational values and ethics which underpin corporate plans.

To assist in this regard, the model NSW Public Sector Code of Conduct and agency-level codes of conduct have been reviewed by the Premier's Department and the Independent Commission Against Corruption. As a result of the review, the model Code has been revised, and guidelines developed to assist agencies in reviewing and revising their own codes of conduct. The new model Code and guidelines are contained in the enclosed policy document, Model Code of Conduct for NSW Public Agencies - Policy and Guidelines.

Using this document as a guide, chief executives of NSW public service departments, and declared authorities are encouraged to give a high priority to reviewing their agency's existing code. Existing codes of conduct may need to be further developed to reflect the principles and provisions of the new Model Code of Conduct, and the particular circumstances and objectives of individual agencies. State-owned corporations are also encouraged to undertake this exercise.

Codes so amended should be published in the agency's first annual report published after the revision, in accordance with the requirements of the Regulations under the Annual Reports Acts for departments and statutory authorities.

The Premier's Department and the Independent Commission Against Corruption have also developed a joint program to assist agencies in revising and implementing codes of conduct and to raise awareness of ethical issues in the workplace. The Public Sector Management Office will soon be writing to agencies to invite them to participate in this program. In the interim, for further assistance in developing, implementing and reviewing codes of conduct please contact Theo Vermeulen, Principal Policy Officer, Premier's Department, on (02) 9228 5516, or Warwick Smith, Senior Corruption Prevention Officer, Independent Commission Against Corruption, on (02) 9318 5999.

Bob Carr
Premier

Issued by: Premier's Department
Contact Officer: Theo Vermeulen
Telephone: (02) 9228-5516