SMEAC Inc. – Veterans Helping Veterans

We have a Code of Conduct to ensure that everyone – staff, volunteers, and veterans – are treated with respect, integrity, and care.

It sets a clear standard for behaviour, creating a safe, supportive, and professional environment for all who are part of the SMEAC community.

SMEAC Inc. 

Code of Conduct 

Policy 

SMEAC Inc. is a veteran-led organisation built on the principle of Veterans Helping Veterans. This Code of Conduct sets the standard for how we operate, how we treat one another, and how we represent SMEAC in all environments. 

All employees, volunteers, registered DVA providers operating from SMEAC Inc., and Management Committee members are required to adhere to this Code of Conduct. It ensures that our actions reflect professionalism, accountability, and respect at all times. 

Procedure 

SMEAC Inc. is committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all personnel and community members. 

All actions and decisions must align with SMEAC’s mission, values, and legal obligations under applicable Federal, State, and local legislation. 

Compliance 

All personnel are expected to uphold SMEAC’s values of respect, discipline, and accountability at all times. 

• Comply withall SMEAC policies, procedures, and lawful instructions 
  • Adhere to all applicable legislation 
  • Maintain high standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability 
  • Follow all Work Health and Safety requirements 
  • Protect confidential and sensitive information 
  • Take responsibility for their own safety and that of others 

Behaviour Standards 

Breaches of the Code may result in disciplinary action. Where misconduct involves unlawful behaviour, it will be referred to relevant authorities. 
 
Employees, volunteers, committee members and registered DVA providers working from SMEAC must not: 
– Discriminate against others based on sex, age, race, religion, disability, pregnancy, marital status, or sexual orientation. 
– Engage in harassment, bullying, sexual harassment, fighting, or disorderly conduct. 
– Steal, damage, or misuse SMEAC property or the property of others. 
– Work while intoxicated or under the influence of illegal or controlled substances. 
– Bring illegal substances onto SMEAC premises. 
– Smoke in SMEAC buildings or vehicles. 
– Accept gifts, benefits, or favours that may create a conflict of interest. 

Dress Code 

– Comply with work health and safety clothing requirements. 
– Present a clean, neat, and professional appearance at all times. 
– Wear minimal jewellery to avoid safety risks. 
– Wear SMEAC uniforms where provided and maintain them in good condition. 
– Seek guidance from a Manager or Program Supervisor if unsure of appropriate attire. 

Deliberate or repeated breaches may result in disciplinary action. 

Privacy and Confidentiality 

– Securely store all personal and organisational information. 
– Protect against loss, unauthorised access, misuse, modification, or disclosure. 
– Use personal information only for the purposes for which it was collected. 
– Do not disclose information externally unless authorised. 

Dealing with Aggressive Behaviour 

SMEAC maintains a zero-tolerance approach to threatening, abusive, or aggressive behaviour. 

Any individual displaying such behaviour may be removed from the premises and the matter escalated as required. 

Staff must immediately notify a Manager or Program Supervisor if a situation escalates. 

Use of Communication & IT Systems 

Employees, volunteers, registered DVA providers working from SMEAC and committee members must: 
– Use SMEAC phones, computers, facsimiles, and devices only for legitimate, approved purposes. 
– Keep personal use minimal and not allow it to interfere with duties. 
– Protect passwords and never share login credentials. 
– Respect copyright and intellectual property rights. 
 
Employees, volunteers, registered DVA providers working from SMEAC and committee members must not: 
– Share confidential or personal information via email or the Internet. 
– Access or distribute explicit, offensive, or inappropriate content. 
 
Note: Emails and digital records may be used as evidence in investigations of misconduct, legal matters, or breaches of SMEAC policies. 

Use of Social Media 

When using social media, personnel must ensure their conduct is lawful and does not: 

• Damage the reputation of SMEAC Inc.
  • Compromise their ability to perform their role
  • Suggest they are speaking on behalf of SMEAC without authorisation 

Personnel must not: 

• Share confidential or sensitive information
  • Post content that is offensive, threatening, discriminatory, or inappropriate

SMEAC Culture and Expectations 

SMEAC operates on a peer-led model built on mutual respect, shared experience, and accountability. 

All personnel are expected to: 

• Support the principle of Veterans Helping Veterans
  • Contribute positively to the camp environment
  • Treat all individuals with respect, regardless of background or circumstance 
  • Take ownership of their conduct and responsibilities 
  • Uphold the reputation and standards of SMEAC at all times