Guide
Ethical decision‑making: a guide for decision‑makers in the Commonwealth public sector
Publisher
Corruption
Political ethics
Public interest
Public sector
Public trust
Australia
Description
This guide supports decision-makers in the Commonwealth public sector to make decisions that serve the public interest and maintain public trust. It provides practical advice to assist decision-makers when faced with ethical dilemmas, to reduce the risk of decision-making being corrupted.
The guide outlines seven ethical decision-making practices:
- Maintain impartiality.
- Consider and consult.
- Decide based on evidence and merits.
- Comply with applicable laws.
- Don’t make assumptions about desired outcomes.
- Anticipate scrutiny.
- Record your reasons.
Publication Details
Copyright:
Commonwealth of Australia 2026
License type:
CC BY
Access Rights Type:
open
Post date:
20 May 2026
