Australian Public Service Commissioner Peter Woolcott has launched revised and updated guidelines for handling misconduct in the APS for HR managers.

The guide provides what the Commissioner says is a best practice framework for public sector agencies to address behaviour contrary to APS values, employment principles and codes of conduct.

“Agencies are encouraged to approach behaviour in context, assess its seriousness and impact on public confidence in the APS and respond in a way that is corrective, restorative and proportionate,” Mr Woolcott said.

The new edition of Handling Misconduct: A human resource manager’s guide, also provides a range of management strategies where misconduct processes aren’t appropriate and explains the principles and legislative framework  upholding APS conduct expectations.

It includes guidelines on raising concerns and reporting suspected misconduct, assessing the seriousness of a complaint, and management options including counselling, warnings and dispute resolution.

The guide goes on to look at taking further action including gathering evidence, procedural fairness, producing a report and making a breach determination and considers unusual circumstances and criminal matters.

“The integrity and proper conduct of each APS employee is critical to maintaining public trust in the APS as an institution. As important, however, is how the APS as an employer manages behaviour that falls short of expectations, Mr Woolcott said.

“Handling Misconduct supports agencies to take action that is reasonable, proportionate, and effective in strengthening trust in the integrity of the APS.”

Resources are available here.