When is a gift too much? New public policy framework provides welcome certainty in Victoria

At a time of increased public awareness and discontent about the use of public resources, the Victorian Public Sector Commission's new policy framework on gifts, benefits and hospitality provides welcome certainty.

Confidence in public institutions has never been more important in light of the probity challenges that our bigger companies and financial institutions are currently facing. The community legitimately expects that public officials will discharge their duties with integrity, impartiality and accountability. This is non-negotiable for a professional public service.

Investigations by Victoria's Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC) demonstrate that the offer of gifts and hospitality to public officials can be part of broader and significant corruption.