Conclusion
An important element in the maintenance of probity in local government is the ability for employees to be able to raise concerns where they perceive wrongdoing or malpractice. Individuals, both local government employees and other interested parties, need to know that their concerns will be taken seriously and investigated.
The Confidential Reporting Policy is only one aspect of measures to ensure the transparent delivery of services. As part of the government's ethical framework there is a code of conduct for elected members and a similar code for Council employees.
The Councils have reviewed this policy from time to time, since it was implemented in 1999, and annually monitors the effectiveness of the policy.