Code of Conduct

This Code of Conduct can be amended by a vote of the Executive and, ultimately, by a vote of the membership.

Our Code of Conduct is built to recognise that the work we do within, and for the Science Party (SP) is, and should be, measured against the highest possible standards. The bar is set high for practical and aspirational reasons. Commitment to these standards reaffirms the gravity with which we take the role of a political party and how we contribute to the direction, and leadership of this nation.

The SP acknowledges that all people are entitled to respect and fair treatment. We are committed to being a safe, respectful, and inclusive space for all employees, members, and volunteers, and to apply these standards to our interactions with people outside our organisation.

1. Scope

1.1 This code applies to all employees, members, and volunteers of the SP.

1.2 The SP in particular expects the leadership of the party to be examples of the ethical standards set out in this code.

1.3 While this code has been written for the guidance of members of our organisation, it is expected that individuals and organisations that work with us will follow this code in connection to their work with us. Failure to do so can result in a termination of their relationship with the SP.

1.4 Branches of the SP may have their own code of conduct. Where this code conflicts with a state code of conduct on a procedural level, the branch shall take precedence.

2. Procedure for Complaints

2.1 The SP takes all complaints seriously, and recognises the right of anyone to submit a complaint to the organisation, over any issue they feel is a violation of our code of conduct.

2.2 The SP will also accept any submission of a concern regarding any action, or omission, by an individual within the party, or of a publication, activity, or action of the party.

2.3 Any complaint or concern should be submitted in writing to [email protected]

2.4 The SP strongly believes in whistle-blowing protections. The SP and its members shall maintain a strict “no retaliation” policy regarding any complaint, or concern raised,

2.4.1 If anyone who has submitted a complaint or concern to the ethics officer/committee believes they are the target of a retaliation in any form (including but not limited to bullying, harassment, or exclusion) they are encouraged to contact the ethics officer/committee. Those found to have committed any of the above behaviours will be considered to be in breach of this code.

2.5 In the event of a potential breach of this code of conduct (including submission of a complaint or concern to the ethics officer):

2.5.1 The ethics officer will investigate the event in question,

2.5.2 and may take disciplinary action against those found in breach of this code. Such action may include written notice of a breach, call for the executive to review the membership status of persons in breach, instate a probationary period for those in breach, or for those in breach of a Zero Tolerance policy (section 5) they may recommend the executive expel the breaching party(s) from the SP.

2.6 Where a complaint has been made to the ethics officer/committee and the outcome is not satisfactory to the complainant, a complaint may be escalated for the consideration of the SP executive.

3. Standards of Conduct

3.1 The SP expects all persons covered by this code to abide by the following standards and principles:

3.1.1 Everyone should be treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.

3.1.2 Everyone should act in accordance with the law at all times.

3.1.3 Everyone should follow all applicable workplace policies, and behave in a safe manner for themselves and those around them at all times.

3.1.4 Bullying, harassment (including sexual harassment), victimisation, and/or discrimination of any type is not tolerated, and is prohibited at all times.

3.1.5 Behaviour which can damage the reputation of the SP is to be avoided at all times.

3.1.6 All actions taken within, or on behalf of the SP should be free from personal interests. Any potential conflict of interest must be disclosed to the party as soon as the individual becomes aware of it.

4. Misconduct

4.1 Misconduct includes a range of different activities, and omissions which may warrant action on the part of the party. Misconduct events can range in severity. The following list of behaviours are considered by the SP to be misconduct, however this list is not exhaustive.

4.1.1 Use of abusive, offensive, or threatening language towards another person.

4.1.2 Verbal or physical violence towards another person.

4.1.3 Disregard of health and/or safety policies and procedures.

4.1.4 Negligence or recklessness in one's duties or activities on behalf of the party, or while involved in a party event.

4.1.5 Behaviour in a manner that constitutes discrimination, or harassment towards a person or group of persons on the basis of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexuality, age, religion, ideology, or disability.

4.1.6 Behaviour in a manner that constitutes sexual harassment, or causes another person sexual harm.

4.1.7 Committing an act, or omission that damages or may damage the reputation of the SP.

4.1.8 Misuse of confidential information, including unnecessary storage of member or voter information outside of approved databases.

4.1.9 Falsification of documents, or making an incorrect declaration to the party, or on the party’s behalf (including candidate nomination forms).

4.1.10 Unauthorised possession, or misuse of SP property (including physical, and/or digital assets including intellectual property).

4.1.11 Dealing with another person or party on behalf of the organisation in bad faith.

4.1.12 Misrepresentation of party policy or or behaviour in a manner considered contrary to the policies of the party.

4.1.13 Failure to declare a conflict of interest with the party. This includes receipt of a gift regardless of monetary value.

5. Zero Tolerance Policy

5.1 Certain behaviours are considered to be so damaging to others, or to the party, that confirmed breaches will result in immediate expulsion from the party. These behaviours are covered by this list.

5.1.1 Sexual assault

5.1.2 Physical assault

5.1.3 Misuse of party resources, such as embezzlement of party funds or property.