Code of Ethics, Values, and Professional Conduct

At the Office of the Auditor General (the Office) our Code of Ethics, Values, and Professional Conduct (the Code) provides a framework to guide ethical decision making for our staff and sets out the principles that support our work.

All staff are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the Office’s values and principles.

Staff are expected to:

  • Perform their duties objectively and avoid situations that may create real, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest,
  • Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, respect, and sound judgment in all aspects of their work,
  • Comply with applicable laws, policies, professional standards, and Office requirements,
  • Remain free of personal prejudice, bias, conflict of interest, or the undue influence of others that may impact their professional judgment and objectivity,
  • Seek guidance when faced with ethical or professional uncertainty.
  • Maintain the knowledge, skills, and professional competence necessary to carry out their responsibilities effectively,
  • Treat colleagues, stakeholders, and members of the public with dignity and respect, and
  • Contribute to a safe, healthy, inclusive, and respectful workplace.

Our Office is non-partisan which means our staff maintain political neutrality and avoid activities that could reasonably undermine public confidence in the Office’s independence.

Our staff are entrusted with sensitive information and are expected to protect its confidentiality at all times. Information obtained through employment with the Office is only used for authorized purposes and handled in accordance with applicable legislation, policies, and professional obligations.

Staff are expected to report concerns regarding potential breaches of the Code and disclose circumstances that may affect their independence or objectivity. Potential breaches of this Code are reviewed through appropriate internal processes. Staff who violate the Code may be subject to corrective or disciplinary measures, up to and including termination of employment or contract, where appropriate.