Conduct Guide for Boards and Committees: Supporting Information

Entertainment and catering
Any entertainment should be consistent with the board’s genuine needs and public duty. Members
should not lose or gain financially as a result of entertainment. The board will ensure the efficient
and responsible expenditure of public funds.
Example statements
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Board members will ensure catering is limited to basic food and drink items.
Members approving entertainment expenditure are responsible for its propriety
and scope.
Board members will ensure alcohol is not consumed during board meetings.
Board members will ensure that they give transparent consideration and due
thought before accepting hospitality offered by suppliers or potential suppliers.
This is to avoid actual or perceived conflicts of interest or undue influence.
Board members will ensure the event is in keeping with the Premier’s Circular
2006/06 Guidelines for Expenditure on Official Hospitality.
Entering government premises
Before the board as a whole or individual members enter premises in an official capacity, they
should normally consult the CEO. This is as a matter of courtesy, and to make sure that board
members do not become directly involved in operational matters. You will need to write the
following comments to suit circumstances.
The CEO of your host agency is responsible for its day to day management. The board as a whole
or individual members may need to visit the agency in a formal capacity or to use government
facilities and equipment.
Example statement
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Board members will cooperate with [host agency contact officer] when using the
premises for meetings, or other board business or wishing to use government
facilities or equipment for board purposes.
14 Public Sector Commission