This policy sets out the direction to be taken by Councillors if offered gifts and hospitality in their capacity as a representative of Council.
In the first instance, gifts and hospitality are to be refused. If refusal is considered to cause offence or embarrassment to the provider, and the gift or hospitality are accepted, the gift automatically becomes the property of the Council. Upon receipt, the CEO will decide whether the gift should be retained by the recipient or disposed of by other means.
The policies confirm that all gifts and hospitality (as defined in this policy), whether accepted or declined, should be recorded in the Gifts and Hospitality Register.
Under the Local Government Act 2020 a separate Councillor Gift Policy which applies only to Councillors is required. A policy for staff is contained in the Staff Code of Conduct.
This policy was adopted by Council in July 2025.