Supplier Code of Conduct

Council seeks to work with its Suppliers to meet and exceed minimum expectations as outlined in this Code and continuously strives to improve the standard of its business practices. By Supplier, the Council means any entity that supplies goods or services, including construction works and services, to the Council. Where the Code refers to workers, it includes employees, contractors, agency and temporary staff of the Supplier and its related entities. Where the Code refers to the law it means the laws in the jurisdiction that apply where the goods are procured, or services are performed. Fundamental to this Code is an expectation that all Suppliers operate in full compliance with all laws, rules, and regulations of the jurisdictions in which they do business.

The expectations outlined in the Code are not intended to supersede or alter the Supplier’s regulatory and contractual obligations. The Council expects all existing and new Suppliers to commit to the Code. Suppliers should check their respective contracts, agreements, and purchase orders as they may contain additional obligations or higher standards than those set out in this code.

The Council expects Suppliers to communicate the Code to their related entities, Suppliers and subcontractors who support them in supplying goods and services to the Council, so that they are aware of, understand and comply with the Code. 

If a Supplier considers that another Supplier has deviated from or breached their obligations under this Code or that a Council employee has breached Council’s Code of Conduct, it is expected to report these concerns to:

(a) in relation to other Suppliers, Procurement, or if there is no such appointed person then either the appointed manager under the contract or the primary Council contact in relation to the goods or services or construction works, and services being provided;

(b) in relation to Council personnel breaching Council’s Employee Code of Conduct or in relation to allegations of misconduct of Council personnel, the relevant public body head or the Independent broad-based Anti-corruption Commission; or

(c) in relation to allegations of suspected corruption involving Suppliers or Council personnel, to the Independent Broad-based Anti-Corruption Commission.

For more information on reporting please contact (03) 5950-1000 or email procurement@mornpen.vic.gov.au

Suppliers are expected to self‑assess their compliance with the Code and take timely action to correct any deficiencies or breaches reported or identified by an audit, assessment, inspection, investigation or review. Suppliers are encouraged to raise any concerns, discuss and seek clarification accordingly to any elements of the Code with Procurement. If requested by Council, Suppliers must provide evidence and confirmation of their compliance with the Code, including the provision of documents and records that support their compliance. Suppliers are expected to support the Council in reviewing compliance with the Code.