Refreshing Inland Revenue’s Code of Conduct

We have recently refreshed our Code of Conduct, bringing together Inland Revenue’s specific obligations with the Code of Conduct for the Public Sector into one clear document.

While the format may have changed, the expectations certainly have not changed. The same high standards of integrity and conduct continue to apply across everything we do at Inland Revenue. Whether it’s protecting customer information, managing conflicts of interest, or navigating day-to-day situations, our Code provides a clear anchor for decision-making. It is designed to support our people to make good decisions.

The refreshed Code makes expectations clear and easy to apply, with integrity being at the heart of being a New Zealand public servant. By understanding and complying with our Code, our people strengthen the trust New Zealanders place in Inland Revenue and in the wider public sector. This helps us do what matters most - deliver for our customers and maintain the integrity of the tax system.

Feedback from our people has been overwhelmingly positive, such as the following:

• It gives me something to anchor back to when situations aren’t clear and helps me step back and think about the right thing to do.

  
  

• We both joined Inland Revenue in August last year. In our roles we are trusted with sensitive information, which reflects the level of trust placed in us and the responsibility that comes with it. Our Code makes it clear what’s expected and why it matters.

  
  

• We are members of the same team but not all in the same office. Treating each other respectfully, speaking up and working through issues together is really important for us. Our Code gives us a shared understanding of what’s expected, so when something’s not quite right, we can have open conversations and sort it out in the right way.

Mandatory learning (with supporting resources) has been rolled out across the organisation. Completing the refresher training and discussing it within teams helps staff feel confident they are doing the right thing in their work. The key message is - if in doubt, check it out!

Several avenues have been made available to our people to indeed speak up if they do have concerns - proof or certainty before raising a concern is not necessary. Concerns can be raised safely and confidentially through people leaders, our internal Integrity & Conduct team, or by using a special Speak Up – Confidential Reporting Form. There is also guidance on reporting concerns, making a protected disclosure, accessing support, and understanding what happens after making a report, as well as information on rights and protections available when speaking up.