Code of conduct

The University, in its policies and actions, must adhere to the highest standards of professional integrity.

We must promote critical enquiry and the rational evaluation of evidence, even if turning that critical focus on some of our own actions and practices may cause some discomfort.

We must support, and where appropriate lead action to mitigate social harm from environmental degradation, social exclusion, and political and cultural discord.

If the La Trobe University community – the students, staff and alumni – can do that, then together we will continue to make a real difference to the citizens of Victoria and to the wider world.

The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to provide members of La Trobe University with an understanding of the standards required of them in their dealings with both national and international communities.

The Code is applicable to all staff, conjoints, volunteers, Members of the Council of the University and external members of University committees, who are to uphold the values and comply with the code in the performance of their duties and in their endeavours.Partners, contractors and visitors are to acknowledge and observe the code in their dealings with the University.

The Code should be read in conjunction with the rules, policies, procedures and guidelines located in the University Policy Library.

All staff and Members of the Council of the University must familiarise themselves with this Code. The Code cannot address every situation that may be encountered. Therefore, if faced with a difficulty, individuals must take reasonable action to clarify any concerns by reference to appropriate University policy or by direct contact with an appropriate University officer.

Trust and respect

Trust is reliance on another person’s integrity, confidentiality and fairness; and demonstrating those principles personally.

We will:

  • know when it is appropriate to share information with others inside and outside the University
  • be reliable and maintain the integrity, confidentiality and privacy of official University information
  • maintain appropriate confidentiality in our dealings with our colleagues
  • acknowledge the responsibility of our positions and that we are regarded as having expertise, knowledge and skills in our field and area of work.

Respect is recognising the importance of diversity and difference and promoting a culture that does not tolerate
bullying, discrimination or harassment.

We will:

  • acknowledge Aboriginal culture and heritage and the traditional custodianship of the lands on which the University is situated
  • treat everyone with respect and courtesy and without discrimination or harassment and encourage intellectual freedom
  • seek approval and guidance from our colleagues where appropriate
  • ensure that our conduct does not harm others
  • value difference and diversity and others’ opinions, choices and approaches.

Honesty and fairness

Honesty is being sincere and fair and acting with integrity in day-to-day dealings in the University community and ensuring that actions are clear, transparent and accountable.

We will:

  • behave honestly and with integrity in our dealings with our colleagues and community
  • comply with any relevant legislative, industrial or administrative requirements
  • act with care and diligence in the course of our employment
  • use University resources in a proper manner
  • politely decline personal gifts or benefits unless permissible under University policies or procedures
  • show transparency when conflicts of interest arise
  • refrain from improper use of privileged information or position.

Fairness is treating others equally regardless of personal differences and making judgments that do not discriminate against individuals.

We will:

  • comply with principles of natural justice and procedural fairness when making decisions or when resolving grievances
  • be committed to the principle of academic freedom as essential to the proper conduct of teaching, research and scholarship
  • recognise not only our rights, but the rights of our colleagues and those in our community.

About the Code

La Trobe University:

  • provides a workplace that is free from discrimination and recognises and utilises the diversity of its employees
  • has the highest ethical standards
  • is accountable for its actions
  • establishes workplace relations that value communication, consultation, co-operation and input from employees on matters that affect their workplace
  • provides a fair, flexible, safe and rewarding workplace
  • focuses on achieving results and managing performance
  • provides a fair system of review of decisions taken in respect of employees
  • encourages staff to exercise their rights to intellectual freedom on matters relevant to areas of specialist knowledge and expertise.

Whilst it is beyond the scope of this Code to articulate every possible situation that may arise it should be understood that a breach of the Code or University policies may result in disciplinary action being taken. The Code does not override obligations imposed by legislation (including the University’s Statutes and Regulations) or the University’s policies or procedures, nor exclude or replace rights and obligations arising from membership of professional and like organisations or rights and obligations under the common law.

External resources

For more information please contact:
Executive Director, People & Culture
La Trobe University