1. Purpose
To ensure decisions are made in the public interest, free from bias or undue influence.
2. Definition
A conflict of interest exists where:
- A committee member or member has a personal, financial or organisational interest
- …that could influence, or appear to influence, decision-making
3. Types of Conflict
- Personal benefit
- Professional or organisational affiliation
- Financial gain
- Family or close personal relationships
- Media or political affiliations relevant to Touch Paper’s work
4. Disclosure
All committee members must:
- Complete an annual declaration
- Update declarations when circumstances change
- Declare conflicts at meetings before discussions begin
5. Management of Conflicts
Depending on severity:
- Record the conflict in minutes
- Restrict access to papers
- Exclude the person from discussion or voting
- Request resignation from the committee if necessary
6. Breach
Failure to declare conflicts may result in disciplinary action or removal from office.