Codes of conduct

Associations often develop a code of conduct for the committee, management, staff and volunteers. A code of conduct defines the expected behaviour of people involved in the association’s activities. A code of conduct for committee members might include:

• complying with all policies, procedures and rules of the association;
• attendance and participation in management committee meetings and the work of the management committee;
• clarifying who has authority to speak on behalf of the association;
• maintaining confidentiality;
• behaving in a manner that does not obstruct the association's pursuit and fulfilment of its objectives;
• behaviour that is respectful of diversity, is non-discriminatory and upholds the association's values (if defined); and
• behaviour that does not abuse, physically, sexually or verbally any member of the association, staff, volunteers or members of the public.