Code of Conduct

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Code of Conduct for Council Members, Committee Members, and Candidate

The City has adopted a Code of Conduct for Council Members, Committee Members and Candidates in accordance with the Local Government (Model Code of Conduct) Regulations 2021. The Code incorporates and builds upon the Model Code prescribed under the Regulations. 

The Code establishes standards of behaviour and ethical conduct to be observed by Council Members, Committee Members and Candidates in the performance of their roles and participation in local government decision‑making. It is based on the principles of accountability, integrity and respectful relationships, and supports good governance and public confidence in the City.

The Code provides general guidance on expected conduct and is to be read in conjunction with the Local Government Act 1995 and its subsidiary regulations. It does not replace or limit legislative obligations that apply under law.

Council Policy - 4.2 Code of Conduct Council Members, Committee Members and Candidates

Complaints about Division 3 of the Code of Conduct

Division 3 of the Code of Conduct sets out behavioural requirements for Council Members, Committee Members and Candidates. These requirements relate to personal integrity, relationships with others, and conduct at council or committee meetings, and are intended to support respectful interactions, fair decision‑making and public confidence in local government.

A person may make a complaint alleging a breach of Division 3 of the Code. Behavioural breach complaints are primarily managed by the City in accordance with the Local Government Act 1995, the Local Government (Model Code of Conduct) Regulations 2021, and the City’s Council Policy 4.30 Code of Conduct Behaviour Complaints Management Policy. 

Complaints about an alleged Division 3 breach must be made in writing, using the approved Complaint About Alleged Breach Form, submitted to an authorised person, and within one month of the alleged breach occurring. Further information about the process and access to the relevant policy and form is provided below.

A behavioural breach complaint can be lodged directly to the Local Government Inspector. The Inspector will generally refer a behavioural breach complaint to the relevant local government for consideration and action as required.

Council Policy - 4.30 Code of Conduct Behaviour Complaints Management

Complaint About Alleged Breach Form - Code of Conduct

Submit a Breach Complaint Form - Local Government Inspector

Complaints to the Local Government Inspector

From 1 January 2026, certain complaints about local government compliance must be made directly to the Local Government Inspector, an independent statutory officer. These include conduct breach complaints, specified breach complaints, and general complaints about alleged non‑compliance with the Local Government Act 1995 or associated regulations.

These matters cannot be investigated or determined by the City.

For more information, visit the Local Government Inspector website

Employee Code of Conduct

The City has adopted an Employee Code of Conduct that sets out the standards of professional and ethical behaviour expected of employees while performing their roles or representing the City. The Code supports good governance and is intended to promote accountability, transparency and public confidence in the City’s operations.

The Code provides general guidance on workplace conduct, including matters such as conflicts of interest, gifts and benefits, use and disclosure of information, record‑keeping, and the reporting and management of misconduct. It is complementary to the Local Government Act 1995 and associated legislation, and must be read in conjunction with those requirements. The Code does not replace or override employees’ legal obligations.

Employee Code of Conduct