Home page
> APS legislative framework > Frequently asked questions
> Employment policy and advice
‹ Previous page
Last updated: October 2008
Frequently asked questions
Can anyone other than an APS employee report a suspected breach of the Code of Conduct?
Anyone, including a private citizen, contractor or consultant, can make a complaint about an APS employee’s behaviour to the relevant Agency Head.
All agencies have arrangements in place to deal with such complaints. It is up to the Agency Head to determine how the complaint will be dealt with.
A complaint may be addressed through the agency’s complaint resolution mechanisms, or it may trigger a number of less-formal processes such as a discussion, or addressing the behaviour and issues as part of the performance management process. Alternatively, a complaint may trigger a Code of Conduct investigation.
It is important to note that only APS employees are protected by the whistleblowing provisions under section 16 of the Public Service Act 1999, and have associated review rights. If a private citizen is not happy with the agency’s response, they may be able to lodge a complaint with the Commonwealth Ombudsman.
