Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to assist Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC) Board members understand and comply with the standards of ethics, integrity and transparency expected by ACIPC. This Code sets out the standard of conduct expected from Board Members in communicating internally and externally, and in disclosing and managing any conflicts of interest, should they arise.

Scope

This policy applies to the Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC) Board of Directors. 

Policy Statement

Conduct

It is expected that Board members will:

• act ethically, with honesty and integrity, always in the best interests of ACIPC;
• refrain from making improper use of their position as a Board Director to gain advantage for themselves or for any other person;
• exercise due care, diligence and skill;
• contribute actively to all aspects of the Board’s role according to the Board Director duty statement;
• make decisions fairly, impartially and promptly, considering all available information, legislation, policies and procedures;
• make reasonable enquiries to remain properly informed;
• understand the financial, strategic and other implications of decisions;
• act in a financially responsible manner;
• understand financial reports, audit reports and other financial material that comes before the Board;
• attend a minimum of 75% of Board and/or Committee meetings;
• treat colleagues with respect, courtesy, honesty and fairness, and have proper regard for their interests, rights, safety and welfare;
• not harass, bully or discriminate against colleagues, members of the public and/or employees;
• contribute to a harmonious, safe and productive Board environment/culture through professional workplace relationships.

Communication and official information

It is expected that Board members will:

• channel all communication between Board and staff on business matters through then Chairperson of the Committee or Board and the CEO/Operations Manager, as relevant;
• not disclose official information or documents acquired through membership of the Board, other than as required by law or where agreed by decision of the Board;
• not make any unauthorised public statements regarding the business of ACIPC;
• support, adhere to and not contradict the formal decisions of the Board made in its meetings;
• respect the confidentiality and privacy of all information as it pertains to individuals;
• ensure information gained as a Board member is only applied to proper purposes.

Conflicts of interest

Conflict of interest is a situation when the private interests of an office bearer come into conflict with their responsibility to act in the best interests of ACIPC. 

 it is expected that Board members will:

• disclose any personal or business interests which may give rise to actual or perceived conflicts of interest;
• not allow personal or financial interests, or the interests of any associated person, to conflict with the interests of ACIPC;
• where conflicts of interest do arise, ensure they are managed in the public interest;
• decline gifts or favours that may cast doubt on their ability to apply independent judgment as a Board member.

In addition, members commit to:

• taking responsibility for contributing in a constructive, courteous and positive way to enhance good governance and the reputation of the Board.

Relevant Documents and References

ACIPC Constitution

ACIPC Code of Conduct for Committee Members

ACIPC Conflict of Interest Policy