Code of Conduct

1. Purpose and Scope of This Code

This Code of Conduct sets out the standards of behaviour expected of everyone working with or representing Ably Care Pty Ltd (ABN 64967000163). It applies to employees, contractors, students, and volunteers.

The Code is designed to:

  • Provide clear guidance for ethical, lawful, and professional conduct.
  • Support accountability and transparency in decision-making.
  • Promote a safe, inclusive, and rights-based environment for participants and staff.
  • Align with the NDIS Code of Conduct, WHS laws, privacy laws, and other relevant Australian legislation.

2. Ably Promise as an Organisation

At Ably Care, our purpose is to empower people with disability to live with dignity, independence, and inclusion.

Vision: Our vision is to be the most trusted care provider, recognized for our unwavering commitment to excellence, inclusivity, and leadership in delivering disability and mental health support.

Mission: Our mission is to empower people by providing compassionate, individualised care that enhances their independence and quality of life.

Values:

  • Integrity: We uphold the highest standards of honesty and transparency, building trust with our clients and their families.
  • Respect: We value and celebrate individuality, treating everyone exactly as they deserve, with dignity.
  • Excellence: We are committed to continuous improvement, ensuring high standards of service and care are consistently achieved and exceeded.
  • Compassion: We deliver care that is genuinely empathetic, personalised, and care that meets the unique needs of each individual.
  • Collaboration: We work closely with clients, families, and other professionals to develop and implement care plans tailored to individual needs and aspirations.

3. Respectful Conduct and Communication

Everyone has the right to be treated with dignity and respect. At Ably Care, we expect all workers to:

  • Show courtesy, kindness, and cultural sensitivity in all interactions.
  • Avoid harassment, bullying, victimisation, or discriminatory behaviour.
  • Use plain, respectful, and inclusive language in verbal, written, and digital communication.
  • Refrain from gossip, inappropriate jokes, or behaviour that undermines others.
  • Maintain professionalism in public forums and online spaces, including social media.
  • Present a neat, clean, and professional appearance at all times.

4. Workplace Standards and Professionalism

To provide safe and effective services, staff and representatives must:

  • Follow Ably Care’s policies, procedures, and lawful instructions.
  • Carry out duties with diligence, care, and competence.
  • Maintain appropriate boundaries with clients and families.
  • Avoid inappropriate relationships, including romantic, sexual, or financial relationships with participants.
  • Remain fit for work and free from the influence of alcohol, drugs, or impairing substances.
  • Report any health, legal, or personal issues that could affect work performance.
  • Engage in ongoing training, supervision, and professional development.

5. Working with Participants and the Community

Ably Care is committed to delivering services that put participants first. This means:

  • Respecting the rights of people with disability to make their own decisions.
  • Delivering services that are safe, person-centred, culturally appropriate, and trauma-informed.
  • Respecting each participant’s dignity, and preferred methods of communication.
  • Promoting choices of advocacy services and complaint processes.
  • Reporting any suspected abuse, neglect, or safety concerns immediately.

6. Avoiding Conflicts of Interest

  • Declare any personal, financial, or family interests that may affect their role.
  • Step back from decisions where conflict of interest exists.
  • Never use their position for personal advantage.
  • Disclose any secondary employment or business activities that may create a conflict.

7. Responsible Use of Ably Care Property

  • Using organisational equipment, funds, and materials only for work purposes.
  • Protecting property from theft, misuse, or damage.
  • Respecting intellectual property and confidential information.
  • Maintaining secure passwords, access codes, and electronic devices.

8. Protecting Privacy and Information

  • Keep all participant, staff, and organisational information confidential.
  • Manage and store records in line with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and Ably Care’s Privacy Policy.
  • Never share or publish participant information without written consent.
  • Report any privacy breaches or data loss immediately.

9. Speaking Up and Reporting Concerns

  • Reporting breaches of this Code, misconduct, safety risks, or unlawful behaviour.
  • Using Ably Care’s reporting systems or escalating externally where required.
  • Being protected from retaliation or disadvantage when reporting concerns in good faith.
  • Understanding that whistleblower protections apply under the Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994.

10. Gifts, Benefits, Bribes, and Influences

  • Staff must not accept bribes, gifts, or benefits intended to influence decisions.
  • Any gifts of appreciation must be declared in accordance with policy.
  • Staff must not offer or solicit gifts or favours from clients, suppliers, or external parties.

11. Work Created at Ably Care

  • Not reproduce or use organisational intellectual property without permission.
  • Report any new intellectual property developed during work to management.

12. NDIS Conduct Standards

  • Respect the rights of participants and people with disability.
  • Protect participants’ privacy and confidential information.
  • Deliver supports and services competently, and with care and skill.
  • Act honestly, transparently, and with integrity in all interactions.
  • Take steps to prevent and respond to violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, or misconduct of any kind.

13. Acceptance of Responsibilities

  • Read, understand, and agree to this Code of Conduct before starting work.
  • Comply with this Code throughout their employment or engagement.
  • Understand that breaches may result in disciplinary action, termination, or referral to the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.

14. Your Rights

  • Respect and Dignity: You have the right to be treated with kindness, fairness, and respect at all times.
  • Choice and Control: You are entitled to make decisions about your life and the supports you receive.
  • Privacy and Confidentiality: Your personal information is protected. We will handle your information sensitively and confidentially.
  • Participation and Inclusion: You have the right to be included and engaged in community life.
  • Safe and Quality Services: You are entitled to supports and services that are safe, effective, and delivered by qualified professionals in line with the NDIS Code of Conduct.

15. Your Responsibilities

  • Open and Honest Communication: We encourage you to share your needs, preferences, and concerns openly.
  • Working Together: Effective support is a partnership.
  • Respect for Others: Show courtesy and respect towards staff, carers, and fellow participants.
  • Keeping Us Informed: Inform us of changes in needs, preferences, or circumstances.
  • Safe Participation: Use equipment safely and responsibly.

16. Contact Us

For any questions, concerns, or requests relating to Code of Conduct, please contact us:

Ably Care Pty Ltd
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 02 8014 0891

This Code of Conduct was last updated: 15 January 2025.