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APSA Conference 2026


Member Code of Conduct

1. Purpose

This Member Code of Conduct (Code) sets out the standards of behaviour expected from all members of the Australian Political Studies Association Limited (APSA). It reflects APSA's commitment to operating with integrity, transparency and respect in accordance with its purpose and values, and in compliance with the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 (Cth) (ACNC Act) and the ACNC Governance Standards.

2. Scope

This Code applies to all members regardless of their class of membership.

This Code applies to conduct in all settings connected to APSA, including meetings, events, online communications and any public representation of APSA.

3. Core Values

Members are expected to uphold the following values in all dealings connected to APSA:

  • Integrity: act honestly and ethically at all times
  • Respect: treat all people with dignity, fairness and courtesy
  • Accountability: take responsibility for your actions and decisions
  • Inclusivity: embrace diversity and foster a welcoming environment
  • Confidentiality: protect sensitive information entrusted to you
  • Stewardship: support the responsible use of APSA's resources and reputation
  • Scholarly exchange: support open, respectful dialogue and sharing of knowledge
  • Academic freedom: support the right of educators and researchers to pursue and express their ideas without undue interference

4. Expected Standards of Conduct

4.1 General Conduct

Members must:

  • Act in a manner consistent with APSA's purpose, values and Constitution
  • Treat fellow members, staff, volunteers and the public with respect and professionalism
  • Refrain from conduct that is discriminatory, harassing, bullying or intimidating
  • Comply with all applicable laws and regulations
  • Not bring APSA into disrepute through their conduct or public statements

4.2 Meetings and Events

Members must:

  • Participate constructively and respectfully in meetings and events
  • Comply with the directions of the chairperson or event facilitator
  • Not engage in disruptive, threatening or offensive behaviour

4.3 Communication

Members must:

  • Communicate with others in a respectful and professional manner, whether in person, in writing or electronically
  • Not make false, misleading or defamatory statements about APSA, its members, staff or volunteers
  • Not use APSA's communication channels (including email lists or member directories) for personal, commercial or political purposes without prior written approval

4.4 Social Media and Public Commentary

Members must:

  • Clearly distinguish between personal views and the views of APSA when making public statements
  • Not post content that is defamatory, discriminatory, harassing or otherwise harmful to APSA or its members
  • Not disclose confidential information about APSA or its members on social media or other public platforms
  • Seek prior written approval from the Board before making public statements on behalf of APSA

5. Conflicts of Interest

Members must:

  • Disclose any actual, potential or perceived conflict of interest to the Board as soon as they become aware of it
  • Not participate in any decision-making process where a conflict of interest exists, unless the Board determines otherwise in accordance with APSA's Conflict of Interest Policy
  • Act in the best interests of APSA, not in their own personal or financial interests

Members should refer to APSA's Conflict of Interest Policy for further guidance.

6. Confidentiality

Members must:

  • Keep confidential all information about APSA, its members, staff, volunteers and operations that is not publicly available
  • Not use confidential information for personal gain or to the detriment of APSA
  • Return or destroy confidential information upon request or upon ceasing membership

Confidentiality obligations survive the termination of membership.

7. Use of the Organisation's Name and Resources

Members must not:

  • Use APSA's name, logo, branding or intellectual property without prior written approval from the Board
  • Represent themselves as acting on behalf of APSA without authorisation
  • Use APSA's resources (including funds, equipment or facilities) for personal purposes

8. Compliance with Policies

Members are expected to be familiar with and comply with all relevant policies adopted by APSA from time to time.

Copies of current policies are available from APSA's website or the Company Secretary at secretary@auspa.org.au.

9. Concerns

Any member with a concern about conduct that may be inconsistent with this Code may raise it with the Board via the Company Secretary at secretary@auspa.org.au.

APSA will treat such concerns sensitively and, where appropriate, refer to its Complaints Handling Policy.

10. Review

This Code will be reviewed by the Board at least every two years, or sooner if required by changes in law, regulation or organisational circumstances.

11. Acknowledgement

By accepting membership of APSA, members agree to be bound by this Code of Conduct as amended from time to time.