Background
The offering of gifts or other benefits can give rise to perceptions of undue influence. While Council encourages the approach of 'a simple "thanks" is thanks enough', situations can arise when Councillors, Council staff or others involved in working with Council are offered a gift.
This policy provides guidance to those officials on what to do if they are offered a gift or benefit to protect themselves from being compromised, or giving rise to the perception of being compromised, in the course of their duties.
Council has had a Gifts and Benefits Policy in place for many years but has undertaken to review the policy within 12 months of each Council election to ensure it remains relevant and helpful to managing these situations. That review has been conducted and only one minor change in wording is proposed to emphasise the purpose of the policy and reduce potential confusion.
How to make a submission
If you have something to say about any aspect of the draft Gifts and Benefits Policy, we encourage you to make a submission. All submissions must be in writing and must be received by 20 August 2025. Please include in the subject: "Submission - Gifts and Benefits Policy".
Submissions can be made:
- By email to council@burwood.nsw.gov.au
- By post to Burwood Council, PO Box 240, Burwood NSW 1805
