Ensuring ethical procurement through Supplier Code of Conduct – Suppliers

An overview of the Supplier Code of Conduct and the benefits it provides.

The Victorian State Government is committed to ethical, sustainable and socially responsible procurement.

The Victorian Government views its suppliers as partners and cares about the way they do business when working with us.

The Supplier Code of Conduct outlines ethical standards that suppliers aspire to meet when they do business with the State.

The Victorian Government seeks to work with its suppliers to meet and exceed minimum expectations as outlined in the Code. It also strives to improve the standard of its business practices.

The Victorian State Government’s expectations do not supersede or alter the supplier’s regulatory and contractual obligations. Instead they work in conjunction with these obligations.

When the Supplier Code of Conduct applies

The Supplier Code of Conduct applies from 1 July 2017.

The Supplier Code of Conduct applies to all general government sector contracts, agreements and orders for the supply of:

  • goods
  • services
  • construction works
  • construction services

Suppliers commit to minimum ethical standards

Suppliers commit to the following minimum standards:

A. Integrity, ethics and conduct

B. Conflict of interest; gifts, benefits and hospitality

C. Corporate governance

D. Labour and human rights

E. Health and safety

F. Environmental management

Benefits of the Supplier Code of Conduct

The Supplier Code of Conduct:

  • seeks to lift the standard of ethical behaviour throughout the supply chain
  • articulates the State’s values and expectations of suppliers
  • seeks supplier support
  • requires few changes by suppliers as it is consistent with current laws
  • complements current procurement practice
  • provides support and advice to report misconduct, unethical behaviour or suspected corruption
  • provides support and advice to report if a State employee has breached the Victorian Public Sector Code.

Tools and support

This content on this page is taken from the Ensuring Ethical Procurement Government Supplier fact sheet.

Ensuring Ethical Procurement Government Supplier fact sheet
Word 80.15 KB
(opens in a new window)

Suppliers are encouraged to raise concerns or seek clarification with their contract manager.

Updated