U3A SUNSHINE COAST INC. – Policies and Procedures
CODE OF CONDUCT

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land where we meet, and pay our respects to the Elders past, present and emerging.

Preamble
Sunshine Coast U3A is part of a worldwide voluntary organisation, with each group operating autonomously. It is an association of people linked by the common desire to learn, and engage in activities with others having similar interests.

U3A in Australia began in 1984 and we were formed in 1986. We have over 2000 members and our area follows the Sunshine Coast Regional Council LGA extending from Caloundra in the south to Coolum in the north and from the range to the coast. We are attached to, but not academically part of, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs.

We are a self-managed, not for profit organisation. Members cannot benefit financially from U3A, thus all members who support the activities of the organization and our members do so in a voluntary capacity. Our programs and courses are developed and run for our members, who can join as many courses and activities as they wish, subject to availability.

Policy Aim
This Code of Conduct has been compiled to establish acceptable ethical and legally compliant standards of conduct for all members and non-member Tutors of U3A Sunshine Coast Inc. when involved in U3A activities. The intention of the Code is to provide guidelines to allow efficient, lawful and harmonious interaction outcomes. This Code of Conduct is designed to meet the legal requirements of both State and Federal Governments in regards to Duty of Care.

Scope
All members and non-member Tutors of U3A Sunshine Coast Inc. are required, under this Code of Conduct, to behave at all times when involved in U3A activities in a way which upholds the following standards:

• Behave honestly and with integrity
• Act with care and diligence
• Treat everyone with respect and courtesy, and without harassment
• Comply with all Australian laws
• Comply with any lawful and reasonable direction given by anyone who has authority to give direction
• Use U3A resources in a proper manner
• Not engage in inappropriate touching or suggestive remarks or actions of a sexual nature
• Not discriminate against any person.

Guidelines – To understand if I am doing the correct action, I should ask myself;

1. Is it legal?
2. Would I be proud of what I have done?
3. Is it consistent with U3A Sunshine Coast Inc. constitution and by-laws?
4. Do I think it is the right thing to do?
5. Would I accept the same from others?

References
Volunteering Queensland Inc.

Definitions

• Harassment – The inappropriate physical or verbal interaction with another person, e.g. the placing of your hand on another person without their permission
• Duty of Care – Everyone has a duty to avoid placing themselves or others at risk of injury.