Conduct Guide for Boards and Committees: Supporting Information

The Western Australian Public Sector Code of Ethics
The standards of conduct and integrity for all public sector employees are expressed in the
following principles.
Personal integrity
We act with care and diligence and make decisions that are honest, fair, impartial, and timely, and
consider all relevant information.
Relationships with others
We treat people with respect, courtesy and sensitivity and recognise their interests, rights, safety
and welfare.
Accountability
We use the resources of the state in a responsible and accountable manner which ensures
the efficient, effective and appropriate use of human, natural, financial and physical resources,
property and information.
Scope of the Western Australian Public Sector Code of Ethics
The Code of Ethics applies to all public sector employees. This includes CEOs, chief employees
and ministerial staff, and public sector bodies covered by the PSM Act, including boards and
committees established under their own legislation.
The PSM Act will apply where that board or committee is established or continued for a public
purpose under a written law. Members of government boards and committees are subject to a
range of statutory and legal obligations. Board members must become familiar with their legal
duties and responsibilities.
The Public Sector Commissioner has a responsibility to monitor the compliance of public sector
bodies (including boards and committees) with the general principles of official conduct, the
Western Australian Public Sector Code of Ethics and codes of conduct adopted by these bodies.
2 Public Sector Commission