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Ethics

Public sector ethics are those principles and standards governing correct conduct by government officials. They provide guidance in situations where there are no specific rules or where matters are unclear, but where the ultimate objective is to serve the public interest.

Through the following tasks, the OPSC provides expert advice to government and agencies on ethical behaviour, and on policies and systems which promote ethical behaviour in the public sector.

Advise the Premier on ethics issues relating to the roles of public sector officials.
Administer of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 1994 and advice on the administration of public interest disclosures.
Undertake projects under the auspices of the CEO Governance Committee (e.g. the Public Service Charter).
Consider policies and practice of the ethical obligations of good public administration.
Facilitate the Queensland Public Sector Ethics Network (QPSEN).
Consult with agencies reviewing their codes of conduct.
Advise on the application and implementation of codes of conduct.
Decide appeals relating to the contravention of codes of conduct by employees.
Provide advice to the Premier and departmental officers on the application and implementation of the Whistleblowers Protection Act 1994, particularly the recording and reporting requirements for public interest disclosures.

For further information on ethics and managing public interest disclosures, see our Resources area.

Last reviewed 26 February 2007

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