Page 2142 - Week 07 - Tuesday, 2 August 2016
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… entrenchment of good governance based on the highest standards of honesty, probity and accountability.
Adopting these principles includes a commitment to develop, adopt and periodically review appropriate guidelines for government integrity. This includes things like the code of conduct for members of the Legislative Assembly, the ongoing role for the Commissioner for Standards, the implementation of a lobbyist register and a supporting code of conduct during this Assembly, the appointment of the Ethics and Integrity Adviser and reforms to public interest disclosure legislation which provide stronger protection for whistleblowers and encourage reporting of corruption and serious wrongdoing.
These initiatives are the foundation of government of integrity and accountability and complement the work of the Head of Service to build a strong culture and behaviour founded on integrity and ethical behaviour across the ACT public service. The ACT public service code of conduct defines integrity as:
… being apolitical, honest, dependable and accountable in public servants dealings with ministers, the parliament, the public and—
importantly—
each other. It means recognising achievement, not shirking uncomfortable conversations and implies a consistency in public servants’ dealings with each other.
The code outlines that the value of integrity is supported by a number of signature behaviours, including taking your job seriously, being accountable, communicating effectively, giving and receiving information and advice without fear, serving the government of the day, making sound decisions and understanding your legal obligations. I want to put on record this afternoon that in my extensive dealings with the ACT public service across directorates at all levels I have found that officers have met these requirements of integrity, accountability and honesty.
I recently attended the ACT public sector awards for excellence where I was very pleased to be able to provide awards to public servants based on the values and signature behaviours enshrined in the service, including awards for respect, for collaboration, for innovation, for leadership and for integrity. These awards showcase public servants who have exemplified at least one of the values in their work. Given that there were more than 120 nominations received and 40 nominations short-listed resulting in six awards, I believe we can confidently say that the integrity framework is reflected and delivered by our public service.
I am confident that integrity and accountability are central to this government, to its executive and to the broader ACT public service that serves our city’s residents so well.
MR HANSON (Molonglo—Leader of the Opposition) (4.24): I am glad that the response from Mr Barr today has been a bit calmer than the last time issues about
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