Australians deserve good government.
The Albanese Government is committed to integrity, honesty and accountability and Ministers in my Government (including Assistant Ministers) will observe standards of probity, governance and behaviour worthy of the Australian people.
Ministers hold high public office and are entrusted with considerable privilege and power. The people of Australia are entitled to expect that, in the discharge of our duties, we will act in a manner that is consistent with the highest ethical standards.
The convention of collective responsibility which applies to the Federal Cabinet ensures that the Government is collectively accountable and responsible to the Parliament and to the people of Australia. This means that Ministers are responsible, both personally and as a group, for the way in which we carry out our official duties.
In 2007, the Labor Government introduced the Standards of Ministerial Ethics, requiring Ministers to conduct themselves to a higher standard of conduct than had been the case in the past.
In 2022, the Albanese Government also commits to higher standards, including to ensure ministerial-led workplaces embody the practices and behaviours required to maintain a safe and respectful work environment for all.
Everyone has the right to a safe and respectful workplace. Inappropriate behaviour in the workplace will not be tolerated.
This Code is underpinned by key principles that Ministers must act with due regard for integrity, fairness, accountability, responsibility and the public interest.
As Prime Minister, I expect my Ministers to demonstrate that they are complying with these high standards of conduct, and in doing so, living up to the expectations of the Australian public.
Each Minister is personally responsible for ensuring they comply with, and uphold, this Code.