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Code of Conduct

1. Purpose

The APNIC Foundation conducts its business with integrity, honesty, and fairness and complies with all relevant laws, regulations, compliance standards, and codes. This Code of Conduct (or Code) sets out the behaviour, standards, and decision-making principles expected from everyone working with, engaged with, or representing the Foundation.

It aims to:

  • Protect the Foundation’s integrity and reputation
  • Guide day-to-day actions and decision making
  • Create a respectful, inclusive, and safe environment for everyone
  • Support the Foundation’s ability to work effectively with a wide range of stakeholders
  • Ensure resources are used responsibly to deliver the greatest benefit to the Foundation’s mission

2. Scope

This Code applies to all people working with, engaged with, or representing the Foundation, including:

  • Personnel (permanent, temporary, part-time, contractors, consultants, committee members)
  • Board members and advisors
  • Suppliers and vendors
  • Volunteers and interns
  • Partner organisations, Foundation grantees, and programme participants engaged in Foundation-led activities

It applies at all times during work activities, whether at the office, while travelling for work, in virtual environments, at external events, or in any situation where a person could be identified as connected to or representing the Foundation.

3. Definitions 

  • Foundation: The APNIC Foundation
  • Misconduct: Any behaviour that breaches the expectations in this Code or laws of Australia and the laws of countries where the APNIC Foundation operates
  • Conflict of interest: A situation where personal interests could improperly influence Foundation-related decisions, preferences, or actions
  • Confidential information: Any non-public information relating to the Foundation, its operations, stakeholders, or partners
  • Harassment: Unwelcome behaviour that creates a hostile or intimidating environment, including verbal, written, physical, bodily, gestures, or online actions
  • Workplace: Any location or setting where Foundation activities are carried out, including all online settings

4. Conduct expectations 

4.1 Respect for people 

  • Treat all people with dignity, fairness, and courtesy regardless of role, background, culture, or beliefs.
  • Promote diversity, inclusion, and equity in all Foundation-related programmes and activities.
  • Avoid behaviour that could be considered harassment, discrimination, intimidation, or bullying.
  • Respect cultural diversity and sensitivities across different Asia Pacific communities.
  • Communicate in a respectful, constructive, and professional manner in all formats (whether face-to-face, on email, or on online platforms).
  • Recognise and value the contributions of colleagues and partners, giving credit where it is due.

4.2 Integrity in action 

  • Act in a transparent manner in all Foundation-related business, internal and external.
  • Avoid actions that could damage the Foundation’s reputation, even outside work hours when connected to Foundation activities.
  • Declare any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest as soon as they arise.
  • Use confidential information only for its intended purpose and never for personal advantage.
  • Avoid giving or accepting gifts, hospitality, or benefits that could create a perception of bias.
  • Demonstrate transparency, accountability, and respect in all interactions on behalf of the APNIC Foundation.

4.3 Diligence in work 

  • Take personal responsibility for meeting deadlines and delivering high-quality outcomes.
  • Seek clarification from line managers when unsure about expectations or procedures.
  • Comply with all agreed policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
  • Be proactive in identifying and alerting management to risks, challenges, or opportunities that could affect the Foundation’s work.
  • Remain accountable for your own work and cooperative in supporting team outcomes.

4.4 Economy and efficiency 

  • Use Foundation resources (funds, equipment, property, and intellectual property) carefully, judiciously, and only for authorised, work-related purposes.
  • Avoid waste (including unnecessary travel or last-minute arrangements for pre-approved travel), printing, or procurement.
  • Make decisions that deliver the best value for the Foundation while maintaining quality and impact.
  • Follow approved travel, procurement, and expense processes without exception.
  • Seek opportunities to improve efficiency through better planning, technology, and collaboration.

5. Reporting and managing concerns 

  • Anyone who becomes aware of a potential breach of this Code must report it as soon as possible.
  • Reports can be made to a direct manager, the CEO, HR, or through a designated confidential reporting channel.
  • All reports will be treated seriously, investigated fairly and impartially, and kept confidential.
  • No one will be victimised or disadvantaged for making a report in good faith.
  • Disciplinary action may be taken for breaches of the Code, which could include warnings, termination of contracts, or legal action depending on the severity of the breach.

6. Responsibilities 

Personnel are responsible for:

  • Understanding and following this Code
  • Seeking advice if unsure about expected behaviour
  • Reporting breaches or suspected breaches promptly

Managers and supervisors are responsible for:

  • Leading by example and modelling the standards in this Code
  • Providing guidance and support to team members
  • Responding to concerns and taking appropriate action

The CEO and Board are responsible for:

  • Ensuring this Code is up to date and aligned with Foundation values and relevant laws
  • Overseeing systems for reporting, investigating, and addressing breaches

7. Mapping to standards 

This Code is compliant with:

  • APNIC Foundation’s values: Excellence and Ingenuity, Integrity in Action, Diversity and Inclusion, Collaborative Success
  • Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) governance standards
  • Relevant laws in the countries where the Foundation operates
  • International best practice in ethics and workplace conduct

8. Review 

This Code will be reviewed periodically to ensure it remains relevant, clear, and effective in supporting the Foundation’s mission, business needs, and compliance requirements.