Topic

Behaviour Codes and Standards

The Behaviour Codes and Standards recognise that Parliamentarians and staff have a shared responsibility to ensure that Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces meet the highest standards of integrity, dignity safety and respect.

In October 2024, the Australian Parliament passed a resolution to endorse:

  • a Behaviour Code for staff employed under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 (MOP(S) Act)
  • a Behaviour Code for Australian Parliamentarians, and
  • Behaviour Standards for Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces. 

The Special Minister of State also signed a determination bringing the Behaviour Code for staff employed under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 (MOP(S) Act) into effect.

You can learn more about the Codes by watching a short online education session at your convenience. Alternatively, you can request PWSS Learning & Development facilitators deliver an in-person session for your office.

A range of guidance materials on the Behaviour Codes and Standards, including posters, bookmarks and factsheets, are also available.

The Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission (IPSC) 

The IPSC is an independent workplace investigation and sanctions framework that enforce the Behaviour Codes and Standards for Commonwealth parliamentary workplace participants. The IPSC can receive disclosures and complaints in relation to suspected breaches. This means that members of the public are not eligilble to submit complaints. Complaints must be submitted in writing by Commonwealth parliamentary workplace participants as defined by the Parliamentary Workplace Support Service Act 2023 (the Act). 

Behaviour Codes and Standards training

The Behaviour Codes and Standards for Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces module is available via the PWSS Academy and facilitated by the PWSS Learning and Development team. 

This training program addresses the amendment responds to recommendations 21 and 22 of the Set the Standard: Report on the Independent Review into Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces. Participants will gain an understanding on the appropriate codes of conduct.

Learning aims:

  • Overview of legislation 

  • Explain the role & delegated powers of the Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission (IPSC)

More information

Resources

Page

Behaviour Code for Australian Parliamentarians

Behaviour Code for Australian Parliamentarians Every Parliamentarian is required to understand and comply with this code and the Behaviour Standards for Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces. These codes and standards are enforceable and a breach of either code could lead to sanctions being imposed.
Page

Behaviour Standards for Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplaces

Every person who works in or visits a Commonwealth Parliamentary Workplace contributes to, and creates, the workplace culture. The Behaviour Standards apply to all people, including members of the public, who are in a parliamentary workplace.

Related resources

Guideline

Establishing Office Culture Guide

The Establishing Office Culture Guide contains information relevant to staff of Parliamentarians or anyone employeed under the Members of Parliament (Staff) Act 1984 (MOP(S) Act) and how it may be used for matters in the context of their employment.

View all resources

Related courses

View all courses