Education on conflicts of interest helps authorities build the knowledge and capacity of officers to recognise and appropriately respond to potential conflicts of interests and dispel myths about them. It is also a way for authorities to raise the knowledge of officers about the requirements of their policy.
Education can be part of formal training on the code of conduct, supplemented by training for higher risk areas. It can also include discussions between managers and officers through such things as performance processes. Awareness and ongoing discussions normalise the process of identifying, declaring and managing conflicts of interest so they become part of everyday business.
Training may be required for officers with a specific role under policy, for example training decision makers such as managers to assess potential conflicts and develop management plans proportionate to the risks; or about what red flags to be alert to. Training can also be provided for officers who advise on the policy to ensure the quality and consistency of advice.
The Commission has 3 short animations and 2 information sheets that authorities can use to raise awareness of conflicts of interest with their officers and managers.
For good and better practice ideas for education, see the Integrity Framework Guide.
