QLD Signing the Code of Conduct

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I Iqbal

Member
19 February 2020
2
0
1
Hi
Just wanted to know that if the employer requires all teachers to sign a staff code of conduct, can some staff opt out of it or decline to sign?
What are the rights of the employer and the employee in this regards?
Thank you
Regards
Iqbal
 

Rod

Lawyer
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27 May 2014
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Seems like a reasonable direction from the employer.

However there is no law that says an employee must sign. To force an employee to sign under threat of dismissal is a form of duress and likely nullifies the signature.

That being said, most employees have a condition in their contract that says they will follow the employer's policies so strictly speaking a signature is not required.

If there is something contentious in the policy take it up with the union. The staff code of conduct needs to be reasonable in its own right and can't change your employment conditions.

Practical tip: Sign and don't make things difficult in the workplace.
 

I Iqbal

Member
19 February 2020
2
0
1
Hi
Just wanted to know that if the employer requires all teachers to sign a staff code of conduct, can some staff opt out of it or decline to sign?
What are the rights of the employer and the employee in this regards?
Thank you
Regards
Iqbal
Thank you, Rod. Sound Advice. I am part of the management team and would not press on the employee however make them understand that they are supposed to follow the Staff Code of Conduct and if they are found to be in breach of the contract that may affect their employment? Do you think that's reasonable?
 

Rod

Lawyer
LawConnect (LawTap) Verified
27 May 2014
7,726
1,056
2,894
www.hutchinsonlegal.com.au
That can be done as a reminder via email and other staff comms.