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Public Service Commission

The Code of Ethics and Conduct

All government sector employees are required to behave in ways that are ethical, lawful, and build trust in the sector. This means acting in ways that demonstrate our core values of Integrity, Trust, Service and Accountability. Expected standards of behaviour are contained in the Code of Ethics and Conduct for NSW Government Sector Employees.    

The Code of Ethics and Conduct also outlines what action needs to be taken where behaviour that is contrary to the Code is alleged to have occurred. 

The Code of Ethics and Conduct applies at all times when employees are acting in the course of, or in connection with, NSW government sector employment. 

Code of Ethics and Conduct

The NSW Public Service Commissioner Direction 2 of 2022 requires agency heads to implement The Code of Ethics and Conduct for NSW government sector employees, and to require employees to comply with it.

View the Commissioner Direction

Responsibilities of Department Secretaries and Agency Heads

Under sections 25 and 30 of the Government Sector Employment Act, Department Secretaries and Agency Heads are responsible for the general conduct and management of their Department or Agency in accordance with the core values of the Ethical Framework

The Code applies to NSW government sector employees, irrespective of the Department or agency for which they are working. Agency heads may choose to extend this Code’s application to contractors and volunteers engaged by the agency, if appropriate. Departments and agencies may supplement this Code – but not alter or subtract from it – with requirements and advice specific to their organisation’s operating environment and business risks. This material may be incorporated into this Code to form a single consolidated document or published separately.

If your agency requires help implementing the Code of Ethics and Conduct please contact us