Complaints

The Code of Conduct (the Code) offers an independent mechanism to address concerns relating to the conduct of ACFID members. A complaint can be made against a specific member that is believed to have breached the Code. Complaints against a member may be initiated by any member of the public, other ACFID members, and any other body. The independent Code of Conduct Committee (the Committee) is responsible for investigating complaints. The process through which complaints are investigated and findings determined is outlined in ACFID Code of Conduct Complaints Handling.

 

How to make a complaint

Step 1: Deciding if you would like to make a complaint

Complaints should first be raised with the relevant ACFID member. All ACFID members have their own mechanisms to handle complaints and information can be found on their websites. If you are not satisfied with the response, you can then lodge a complaint with the Committee. Where it is not appropriate to refer you to the member’s own complaints-handling process, the Committee may take the complaint as an own inquiry. In general, the Committee will only accept complaints in writing and only if you are willing for the member to be aware of your identity. If you have a genuine cause to believe that you may be at risk from having your identity revealed to the member organisation, you may request that the Committee maintain your confidentiality. Anonymous complaints will not be accepted by the Committee, nor investigated.

Step 2: Provide information

Complaints against a signatory organisation under the ACFID Code of Conduct should:

  • Be in writing
  • Include the name and contact details of the complainant
  • Set out the basis of the complaint
  • Outline which aspects of the Code of Conduct you believe are being breached
  • Include all available supporting evidence.

You will be contacted and asked to provide any required information that was not submitted. Any complaints received that cannot meet the above criteria may be dismissed. Information on the complaint and any other relevant materials will be made available to the member.

You are advised to consider taking matters related to breaches of Australian laws such as employment of staff, tax or fundraising to the appropriate government body through their relevant complaints mechanisms. The Committee’s primary focus, if a breach occurs, is to work with members to improve standards and reduce the risk of recurrence.

If a breach is more serious, or the member does not respond appropriately, disciplinary action may be considered.

Step 3: Submit the Complaint

Complaints should be marked ‘confidential’ and emailed to:

Chair, ACFID Code of Conduct Committee

Email to [email protected]

Or posted to:

Chair, ACFID Code of Conduct Committee
Care Of ACFID
Private Bag 3
Deakin ACT 2600

For more information regarding what will happen to a complaint, see ACFID Code of Conduct Complaing Handling.

Contact us at: Engagement and Effectiveness Team