ETHICS POLICY FRAMEWORK

Approved by the Board of Directors
Date: 01/01/2025

 

1. Policy Statement

United Nationals Countryless Children (UNCC) is a registered charitable organization under the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC).
We are committed to upholding the highest standards of legal, ethical, and professional conduct in all our operations and partnerships.

Our ethics policies reinforce UNCC’s mission to empower seniors, children, families, and communities to overcome poverty and injustice through advocacy, education, and humanitarian action. These policies serve to protect our staff, volunteers, donors, and beneficiaries while ensuring that UNCC remains transparent, accountable, and compliant with national and international good-governance standards.

 

2. Purpose

This Ethics Policy Framework outlines the principles, standards, and specific policies adopted by UNCC to guide ethical behavior and responsible management.
It provides assurance to stakeholders that the organization:

1. Acts with integrity and transparency.

2. Maintains responsible stewardship of donated resources.

3. Ensures safety and dignity of beneficiaries.

4. Complies with ACNC Governance Standards and all applicable laws.

 

3. Scope

This policy applies to:

1. All UNCC employees, volunteers, and contractors.

2. Members of the Board of Directors and committees.

3. Partner organisations and implementing agencies acting on behalf of UNCC;

4. Any person or entity representing UNCC in an official capacity.

 

4. Key Ethical Policies

4.1 Code of Conduct Policy

Defines the behavioural standards expected of all individuals representing UNCC. It promotes respect, professionalism, fairness, and accountability in all relationships and decision-making processes.

4.2 Child and Adult Safeguarding Policy

Affirms UNCC’s commitment to the safety and wellbeing of children, persons with disabilities, the elderly, and other vulnerable individuals. The policy outlines prevention, reporting, and response procedures to protect all beneficiaries from harm or abuse.

4.3 Conflict of Interest Policy

Ensures that all personal or professional conflicts—real or perceived—are disclosed and managed appropriately. UNCC Board members and staff must act solely in the organisation’s best interests, avoiding decisions that could result in personal gain.

4.4 Gifts, Benefits and Hospitality Policy

Provides guidance on accepting or offering gifts and hospitality to maintain integrity and public confidence. Staff and volunteers must avoid situations that may compromise independence or create the appearance of influence.

4.5 Financial Integrity and Anti-Corruption Policy

Sets out UNCC’s zero-tolerance approach to corruption, fraud, and misuse of funds. Establishes controls for reporting and investigating financial wrongdoing, ensuring robust stewardship over donor contributions.

4.6 Whistleblower (Protected Disclosure) Policy

Provides secure and confidential mechanisms for reporting misconduct, unethical behaviour, or breaches of policy without fear of retaliation or victimisation.

4.7 Complaints and Feedback Policy

Outlines how UNCC receives, manages, and resolves complaints from supporters, beneficiaries, and partners. Ensures all concerns are handled transparently, fairly, and within reasonable timeframes.

4.8 Disability Inclusion Policy

Commits UNCC to inclusive practices that respect the dignity, rights, and equal participation of persons with disabilities in both programs and employment.

4.9 Environmental Responsibility Policy

Promotes environmentally sustainable operations and responsible use of resources, aligning with UNCC’s humanitarian values and long-term community resilience goals.

4.10 Transparency and Accountability Policy

Ensures openness in governance and financial management. Annual performance and financial reports are publicly available in compliance with ACNC reporting requirements.

4.11 Modern Slavery and Human Rights Policy

Affirms UNCC’s zero-tolerance stance toward modern slavery, human trafficking, and exploitation. The organisation implements measures to ensure ethical supply chains and human-rights-based program delivery.

 

5. Compliance and Governance

UNCC operates in accordance with the ACNC Governance Standards, which require:

1. Accountable Management – maintaining effective oversight by a responsible governing body.

2. Purpose Consistency – acting in furtherance of UNCC’s charitable objectives.

3. Integrity and Compliance – ensuring ethical conduct and adherence to law.

4. Responsible Financial Management – protecting organisational assets and donor funds.

5. Transparency – making information about operations and finances publicly available.

The Board of Directors reviews compliance with these standards annually and may commission external audits to ensure continuous improvement.

 

6. Roles and Responsibilities

Board of Directors: Approves and oversees ethical and governance policies; ensures compliance with ACNC standards.

1. Executive Management: Implements policies and ensures staff and volunteers receive training.

2. Staff and Volunteers: Uphold the Code of Conduct and report any suspected breaches or unethical behaviour.

3. Partners and Contractors: Required to adhere to UNCC’s ethical policies and cooperate in investigations or audits.

 

7. Review and Amendments

This policy framework shall be reviewed every two (2) years or earlier if required by changes in law, ACNC standards, or organisational priorities. All amendments must be approved by the Board and recorded in meeting minutes.

 

8. Acknowledgement and Adoption

This Ethics Policy Framework has been reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors of United Nationals Countryless Children (UNCC).
All staff, volunteers, and partners are required to familiarise themselves with and adhere to these policies as a condition of their engagement.

 

Approved By:

 

Chairperson, Board of Directors
Date: 01/01/2025

Endorsed By:

 

Executive Director / Chief Executive Officer
Date: 01/01/2025

Next Review Date: 01/01/2028

​

Peter Lino Lomoro
On behalf of UNCC – Australia
Date: 02/10/2025