Domestic Violence NSW (DVNSW) is able to create meaningful impact and change by being recognised as a leader in the domestic and family violence sector. As such, it is imperative that the organisation takes appropriate reputational risk measures to support and protect the DVNSW membership. DVNSW, therefore, expects certain standards of behaviour from its members who are required to adhere to the following codes of conduct that governs their behaviour in their interactions with the association and the sector. These have been outlined below.
Professional behaviour:
- Maintain the highest standards of professionalism, honesty, integrity, trust, privacy, confidentiality, and fairness. Avoid conflicts of interest and promptly disclose any potential conflicts to the association.
- Protect the reputation of DVNSW and not take any action which could be detrimental to employees, the organisation or other stakeholders who have an interest with DVNSW.
- Be courteous, sensitive, and honest in communications, and be considerate to the needs of others.
- Not make disparaging remarks about other DVNSW members, stakeholders or partners, DVNSW employees, or DVNSW as an organisation.
Alignment to DVNSW mission and values:
It is important to us that our members are aligned with our values and support us in the way in which we work to eliminate domestic and family violence including:
- Support DVNSW’s vision that women, families and communities should live free from violence live in a world with gender equity.
- Endorse DVNSW’s aim to end gendered violence through its work with the Change the Story Framework and primary prevention initiatives.
- Endorse DVNSW’s aim to support the Domestic and Family Violence sector through promoting quality trauma-informed practice.
Acknowledge:
- the disproportionately high rates of violence impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women, families and communities and the ongoing impacts of colonisation and systemic racism that is still present within institutions and the broader community.
- that sexuality and gender diverse people, people with disability and people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities often experience higher rates of violence than the broader community.
- that those with lived expertise of domestic, sexual and family violence have a right to be heard and part of the decision-making process.
Anti-harassment and bullying:
- Respect differences. Members shall treat all individuals with respect, dignity, and courtesy, regardless of differences in opinion, background, or affiliation.
- Refrain from engaging in any form of harassment, discrimination, or bullying.
- Not harass or discriminate in any way on the grounds of gender, pregnancy, race (including colour, ethnic background or national identity), marital status, disability, sexual preference, political or religious belief, or age.
Confidentiality:
- Respect the confidentiality of sensitive information shared within the association, including but not limited to proprietary business information and member data.
- Shall not disclose confidential information without proper authorisation.
- Not take advantage of information belonging to DVNSW or opportunities arising from those for personal benefit independent from the business of DVNSW or to benefit any other business or person.
Media and social media:
- Members must not speak on behalf of, or as a representative, of DVNSW, with the media, on any social networking website (including but not limited to Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube) without prior consent from the CEO of DVNSW.
Legal and ethical principles:
- Engage in fair, legal and ethical business practices, including employment, procurement, marketing, and competition.
- Comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards relevant to their field.
- Shall not engage in deceptive, fraudulent, or misleading practices.
- Minimise risk to themselves and the organisation.
- Engage in socially responsible practices that benefit their communities and the industry.
- Operate with consideration to the environment, sustainability and the social impact of their business activities.
Alignment with the DVNSW Good Practice Guideline:
- Commit to using the DVNSW Good Practice Guidelines in the work of their organisation and in practice.
- Commit to continuous learning and professional development to stay informed about industry trends and best practices.
Conflict Resolution:
- Shall seek amicable solutions to disputes and conflicts within the association.
- Shall not engage in public disputes that could harm the reputation of the association or its members, including social media.
Violations:
- Report any violations of this Code of Conduct by other members to the association's CEO, which will be handled confidentially and impartially.
- Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action, which may include suspension or termination of membership.
