The Victorian Public Sector Commission (VPSC) has issued a reminder to the State’s Public Servants about their obligations during election periods.
In a statement, the VPSC said that with both the State and Federal elections set to take place this year, it was a good time for Public Servants to renew their understanding of what was expected of them.
“Public Servants must apply the code of conduct and remain impartial, apolitical and professional at all times, but this requirement is brought into sharper focus in the period leading up to and during local, State and Federal election campaigns,” the VPSC said.
“It is critical that the Victorian Public Sector maintains the confidence of the Government, members of Parliament and the wider community,” it said.
“Public Servants who are members of a political party or engage in political activities of any kind must avoid actual, potential or perceived conflict of interest with their Public Sector employment.”
The VPSC said that during election time there was a heightened potential for Public Sector employees to inadvertently breach their obligations under the code due to the possible intersection of professional responsibilities with private beliefs and activities.
The Commission has published two guides to support Public Sector employees understand and meet their obligations, while participating in Australia’s democracy.
“The Guide for Victorian public sector employees during election periods outlines for employees and contractors what their obligations are in the lead-up to, and during elections,” it said.
“The Manager’s guide for working with public sector employees involved in election activities assists people leaders to manage the risks associated with their employees who are, or plan to be, engaged in election activities.”
It said these guides applied to local, State and Federal elections.
VPSC’s online guide for employees can be accessed at this PS News link and its guide for managers at this link.
