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Conflict of Interest Policy


Ascend GRC is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and ethical conduct. This Code of Ethics & Conduct sets out the principles and expectations for all employees, board members, contractors, and volunteers to ensure responsible and ethical behaviour in all organisational activities.
Ascend GRC Conflict of Interest Policy

Conflict of Interest Policy

1. Purpose

Ascend GRC is committed to ensuring transparency, integrity, and accountability in decision-making. This policy establishes guidelines for identifying, disclosing, and managing conflicts of interest to protect the organisation’s integrity and credibility.


2. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, board members, contractors, and volunteers engaged in Ascend GRC’s activities and decision-making processes.


3. Definitions

  • Conflict of Interest: A situation where a person’s personal, financial, or other interests may interfere with their professional duties and responsibilities.

  • Related Party: Any individual or entity with a close personal or financial relationship with an Ascend GRC member.

  • Disclosure: The process of reporting actual, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest.


4. Policy Statement

Ascend GRC is committed to:

  • Identifying and managing conflicts of interest to uphold organisational integrity.

  • Ensuring fair, transparent, and impartial decision-making.

  • Protecting the reputation and trust of stakeholders.


5. Identifying & Disclosing Conflicts of Interest

  • Individuals must disclose any actual, potential, or perceived conflicts as soon as they arise.

  • Disclosure must be made to the Board Chair, CEO, or designated Compliance Officer.

  • Conflicts must be documented in the Conflict of Interest Register.


6. Managing Conflicts of Interest

  • Recusal: Individuals with a conflict must abstain from decision-making on affected matters.

  • Review by the Board: Significant conflicts may be reviewed by the Board for appropriate action.

  • Mitigation Measures: Where necessary, adjustments to responsibilities or roles may be made.

  • Third-Party Involvement: Independent reviews may be conducted for material conflicts.


7. Non-Compliance & Consequences

  • Failure to disclose conflicts may result in disciplinary action.

  • Breaches of this policy may lead to termination of engagement or legal action where applicable.


8. Related Legislation & Standards

  • Corporations Act 2001 (Cth).

  • Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) Governance Standards.

  • ASX Corporate Governance Principles (where applicable).

  • ISO 37000: Governance of Organizations.


9. Review & Approval

This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board of Directors to ensure effectiveness and compliance.


10. Contact Information

For queries regarding this policy, please contact:

Ascend GRC Compliance Officer


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