Definitions Used in the Complaints Process

For the purposes of the Complaints Resolution Process the terms listed below have the following meanings:

Natural Justice

Natural Justice (also referred to as "procedural fairness") means:

If you are the subject of a complaint then you must be fully informed of any allegation/s made against you and given the opportunity to state your case, provide an explanation or put forward a defence;
there must be a proper investigation of the allegation/s, ensuring that all people involved in the complaint are heard, and that all relevant submissions are considered;
the decision-maker must act fairly, impartially and without bias.

Corrupt Conduct

Corrupt conduct includes the dishonest or partial exercise of official functions by a public official. Corruption can take many forms including taking or offering bribes, public officials dishonestly using influence, blackmail and fraud.

Maladministration

Maladministration involves serious misconduct that is contrary to law, unreasonable, unjust, oppressive, discriminatory or based on improper motives. Information on maladministration should be reported to the NSW Ombudsman.

Serious and Substantial Waste

Serious and substantial waste includes uneconomical, inefficient or ineffective use of resources which result in a significant loss or waste of public funds or resources. Information on serious and substantial waste of public money should be reported to the NSW Auditor General.

Confidential