Procurement and contracting are areas where, even with the best of intentions, significant ethical problems can arise unless those involved are aware of the potential pitfalls and take conscious action to avoid them.

The following code of conduct has been prepared for Crown land managers (CLMs) and reserve user groups to guide procurement activities. The code details the principles and behaviours that must be followed.

1. Accountability/transparency/impartiality

CLMs must not use information obtained in the course of their decision-making duties to gain a direct or indirect advantage for themselves. Individuals who are responsible for deciding which supplier to use must disclose to the CLM leadership (e.g. all members of the CLM executive) if they become aware of any interest that they, or any member of their family, or any close friends and relationships, hold or are offered, that might possibly be thought to conflict with their duty to make a fair and even-handed decision. For example, the individual or one of their relatives or close friends works for or has shares in a potential supplier.

In most cases, early and open disclosure of such an interest may allow the CLM to prevent a conflict of interest occurring. If the conflict is not serious, no action beyond disclosure may be required. If the conflict is serious, it may be necessary for the individual to be excluded from the decision-making process.

4. Gifts, gratuities, hospitality

Gifts, gratuities and hospitality include such things as monies, credits, discounts, presents, food and drink, clothing, tickets to events, travel or hotel expenses and any other form of entertainment. Individuals must not accept any gifts, gratuities or hospitality from a potential supplier during, or within a reasonable time following, the procurement process.

5. Conduct of Suppliers

CLMs and reserve user groups must not engage with suppliers that are:

• bankrupt
• have a history of poor performance, or inappropriate conduct
• insolvent
• are corporate entities with officers who are disqualified under the Corporations Act 2001
• considered as being unable to meet the requirements of a procurement, such as delivering on time

6. Declaration of interest form

All individuals involved in the decision-making process must complete a Declaration of Interest form to divulge any actual or perceived conflicts of interest or to declare no conflict of interest exists. This form must be updated and communicated to the CLM leadership if the circumstances change during the course of the procurement.

For more details on managing conflicts of interest including a step-by-step guide and template declaration documents please see the managing conflict section.