Code of ethical behaviour

This Code of Ethical Behaviour is a set of standards that guides the conduct of all cadet activities and describes the important obligations and responsibilities expected of cadets as valued members of the Australian Defence Force Cadets.

As a cadet you are expected to:

1. Treat others with respect and dignity.
2. Recognise that everyone is different and that differences are a great strength because we can learn from others and better appreciate each other as unique human beings.
3. Make decisions that are fair for everyone. This is about making sure everyone is given a fair go and has the same opportunity to share their ideas and join in activities.
4. Recognise, prevent and report unacceptable behaviour like harassment and bullying, discrimination, swearing, threats, violence, unsafe activities or abuse of positions of responsibility.
5. Behave with integrity by being honest to yourselves and others.
6. Be accountable for your actions and decisions. Take responsibility for your actions and do not blame others or make excuses for your behaviour.
7. Respect your Cadet Officers and Supervisors and obey their lawful directions that relate to you as a cadet.
8. Carry out cadet tasks assigned to you in accordance with relevant policies.
9. Keep a clean and tidy standard of dress while wearing your cadet service uniform because you represent your Parent Service and must look and behave in a manner that supports the good reputation of your Parent Service.
10. Stay true to cadet values of honour, honesty, courage, integrity, loyalty and teamwork.

As a ADFC Adult member or other adult working with Cadets you are responsible for:

1. Exercising a duty of care in supervising Cadets by understanding your obligations under local legislation to report incidents and protect Cadets in your care;
2. Performing your duties with skill and care, using your authority in a fair and unbiased way;
3. detecting and dealing with behaviour which constitutes unacceptable behaviour or has the potential to develop into unacceptable behaviour such as harassment; taking immediate action when you become aware of unacceptable
4. Behaviour (even without a complaint being lodged). Refer the matter to senior unit personnel;
5. Detecting and managing behaviour that constitutes a sexual offence;
6. Taking immediate action when you become aware of a sexual offence being committed. Refer the matter to senior unit personnel;
7. Treating colleagues and Cadets equitably regardless of race, religion, gender, ethnic or national origin, physical characteristics or disability, and with courtesy and sensitivity to their rights and aspirations—be aware of individual differences;
8. Encouraging Cadets to appreciate the value of equity and diversity in their units;
9. Protecting and respecting the personal privacy of Cadets by ensuring that there is no breach of confidentiality of Cadets’ personal records and information;
10. Being careful not to place Cadets or colleagues at unnecessary risk; and not hesitating to call for assistance immediately when there is any prospect of personal risk;
11. Ensuring Cadets’ property and equipment is protected and maintained in a safe condition;
12. Presenting yourself as a role model to Cadets by demonstrating these standards and values in your own behaviour in a manner that enhances the reputation of the Cadets; and
13. Asking for help if you are not sure about any aspect of your responsibilities or how to respond and ensuring that you have had the appropriate training. This is sensible, professional behaviour and will not be regarded as a failure.