Using the Queensland Government Supplier Code of Conduct 2023

The Queensland Government Supplier Code of Conduct 2023 (the Code) sets out the ethical, environmental and social expectations of suppliers who want to do business with the Queensland Government.

How agencies apply the Code

Government agencies will apply the Code to all procurement, regardless of value. However, the way they apply the Code will vary depending on the value and complexity of the procurement.

For example:

• for smaller tenders, you may only need to confirm that you meet the expectations of the Code
• for larger tenders, you may need to complete a formal commitment letter relating to the Code
• all tenders may incorporate a clause in contract terms and conditions to ensure compliance with declarations and verbal commitments.

At a minimum, invitation documentation must require suppliers to warrant that they comply with the Code. Contract documentation must include a condition requiring ongoing compliance with the Code during the contract term.

Meeting the expectations of the Code will assist in avoiding breaches of the Queensland Procurement Policy (which may incur demerits and/or a sanction).

If you have queries about how the Code applies in your situation, contact the procuring agency (i.e. the agency that is running the tender/has the contract).

How to implement the Code

You must proactively self-assess your compliance with the Code and fix any shortcomings.

If you already meet legislative and regulatory requirements, and demonstrate good business practice, you probably meet many of the Code's provisions.

If there is discretion on how to meet a Code provision, you only need to take actions appropriate to the size of your business. For example, small businesses don't usually need sophisticated workplace policies or systems.

Queries and complaints

If you have concerns about an agency decision, contact the procuring agency in the first instance.

Alternatively, contact the Queensland Government Procurement (QGP) Compliance Branch (previously the QPP Compliance Unit), which will help open and facilitate communication with the agency concerned:

• complete the procurement complaints form
• email QPPCompliance@epw.qld.gov.au
• free call 1300 105 030.

The QGP Compliance Branch refers concerns about:

• illegal activity or corruption to the Queensland Police Service, Australian Federal Police or Crime and Corruption Commission as appropriate
• regulation breaches to the relevant regulatory body.