Whistleblower Policy
Enterprise Partnerships WA (EPWA) is committed to fostering a culture of integrity, transparency, and accountability. This Whistleblower Policy provides a framework for individuals to report misconduct, unethical behaviour, or illegal activities without fear of retaliation.
1. Purpose of the Policy
The purpose of this policy is to:
1.1 Encourage the reporting of concerns related to misconduct, unethical behaviour, or illegal activities.
1.2 Provide a clear process for raising and handling whistleblower reports.
1.3 Protect whistleblowers from retaliation, harassment, or adverse consequences.
1.4 Ensure that all reports are treated seriously, confidentially, and investigated thoroughly.
2. Scope of the Policy
This policy applies to:
2.1 All employees, contractors, volunteers, board members, and other individuals associated with EPWA.
2.2 Any conduct or activity that is unlawful, unethical, fraudulent, or a breach of EPWA’s policies and values.
Examples of reportable activities include but are not limited to:
Fraud, theft, or embezzlement.
Corruption or bribery.
Harassment, discrimination, or bullying.
Health and safety violations.
Misuse of EPWA’s funds or resources.
Breaches of confidentiality or data privacy laws.
Any other illegal, unethical, or improper conduct.
3. How to Make a Report
Whistleblower reports can be made in the following ways:
3.1 Email: Send your report to susannah@epwa.org.au and/or clare@epwa.org.au
3.2 Phone: Call us at 0401806804 and/or 0438859727
3.3 Anonymous Reporting: Reports can also be submitted anonymously via a third party intermediary.
When making a report, please provide as much detail as possible, including:
Your name and contact details (optional if anonymous).
A description of the conduct or activity, including dates, locations, and individuals involved.
Any supporting evidence or documentation.
4. How We Handle Reports
4.1 Acknowledgment: We will acknowledge receipt of your report within five (5) business days, unless the report is made anonymously.
4.2 Assessment: The EPWA Board will assess the report to determine the appropriate course of action. This may include gathering additional information or conducting a formal investigation.
4.3 Investigation: All reports will be investigated thoroughly, fairly, and confidentially. Investigations may involve interviews, document reviews, and consultation with external experts if necessary.
4.4 Outcome: Upon completion of the investigation, appropriate actions will be taken to address the issue. The whistleblower will be informed of the outcome, provided it does not compromise confidentiality or legal requirements.
5. Protection for Whistleblowers
EPWA is committed to protecting whistleblowers from retaliation, harassment, or adverse consequences resulting from their report. This includes:
5.1 Confidentiality: All reports will be handled confidentially, and the identity of the whistleblower will only be disclosed if required by law or with the whistleblower’s consent.
5.2 No Retaliation: Whistleblowers are protected from any form of retaliation, including termination, demotion, or discrimination.
5.3 Support: Whistleblowers will have access to support and resources throughout the process, including counselling services if needed.
6. False or Malicious Reports
Reports made in good faith, even if they are found to be unsubstantiated, will not result in any adverse action against the whistleblower. However, deliberate false or malicious reports may result in disciplinary action.
7. Roles and Responsibilities
7.1 Management and Board: Responsible for receiving and assessing reports, overseeing investigations, and ensuring whistleblower protections are upheld. Committed to promoting a safe environment for reporting and ensuring appropriate actions are taken to address issues raised.
8. Review and Continuous Improvement
This policy will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with legal and regulatory requirements. Feedback from whistleblowers and stakeholders will be used to improve processes.
9. Contact Us
If you have questions about this policy or wish to make a whistleblower report, please contact:
Enterprise Partnerships WA
Email: susannah@epwa.org.au and/or clare@epwa.org.au
Phone: 0401806804 and/or 0438859727
Thank you for helping us uphold the values of integrity, transparency, and accountability at Enterprise Partnerships WA.
