A Code of Conduct is a legislative requirement under the Local Government Act 1995. It must be observed by:
- Council Members
- Committee Members
- Candidates in a local government election
- Employees.
Council Member, Committee Member and Candidate Code of Conduct
The Code of Conduct for Council Members, Committee Members and Election Candidates outline the principles and standards of behaviour required to ensure accountability, integrity and ethical decision-making.
View Council Members, Committee Members and Candidates Code of Conduct (PDF)
Types of Council Member, Committee Member and Candidate Code of Conduct complaints
- Division 3 – Behaviour: sets out the requirements relating to the behaviour of council members, committee members and candidates; and (b) the mechanism for dealing with alleged breaches of those requirements. A complaint under Division 3 of the Model Code must be made within one month of the alleged breach.
- Division 4 – Rules of Conduct: The legislation rules are intended to prevent Council Members engaging in inappropriate behaviour such as securing personal advantage, misusing local government resources and improper conduct. The Local Government Standards Panel deals with breaches of these rules of conduct. A complaint received under Division 4 of the Code of Conduct must be made within six months of the alleged breach
How to submit Code of Conduct complaints
- Download and complete the relevant complaint form:
- Division 3 – Behaviour:
Complaint About Alleged Breach Form Code of Conduct for Council Members, Committee Members and Candidates (PDF) - Division 4 – Rules of Conduct:
Complaint of a Minor Breach Form
- Division 3 – Behaviour:
- Submit the complaint to the City's Complaints Officer via email to complaints@wanneroo.wa.gov.au
Complaint investigation process
The investigation process involves:
- Division 3 – Behaviour: Alleged breaches of minor behavioural matters under Division 3 are investigated by the City through its formal complaints and investigation process, as outlined in the Code of Conduct and the City’s Council Member, Committee Member and Candidate Code of Conduct Complaint Handling Policy.
- Division 4 – Rules of Conduct: Alleged breaches of the rules of conduct under Division 4 are classified as minor breaches and are investigated by the Local Government Standards Panel. Election Candidates
Any alleged breach of the Code by a local government election candidate can be lodged at any time. However, investigations will only proceed if the candidate is elected as a Council Member. For more information visit the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries website.
Register of complaints
Employee Code of Conduct
Our Employee Code of Conduct outlines the standards of behaviour expected from all our employees. Together with our Values, the Code forms the foundation of our culture so we can deliver a huge range of services and facilities for everyone in our community.
