The Public Service Act 1999, through the APS Values and APS Code of Conduct, sets the framework for ethical and behavioural standards within the APS. The department champions the APS Values. Ethical standards govern how the department does its business, particularly:
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its relationship with the Australian Government and the Parliament
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its relationship with the public
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relationships with colleagues
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the personal behaviour of its staff.
Ethical standards are embedded in Open for Business and the strategic plan and, along with the APS Values and Code of Conduct, are promoted within the department. They are an integral part of the department’s work and leadership behaviours. Leadership expectations are described in the leadership protocol (see below). Values and expected standards of behaviour are incorporated into employee performance and development plans.
When new employees join the department they are provided with information on the department’s ethical standards and expectations for contracting of services. This information is also included in standard contracts.