Whistleblower Policy
1. Purpose of Policy
Saarathi Pty Ltd (Saarathi) is committed to protecting Whistleblowers who report misconduct, dishonest behavior, or illegal activities. This policy applies to all Saarathi activities, interactions with clients, suppliers, and the environments in which Saarathi operates.
We acknowledge our responsibility to conduct business in alignment with both Australian and internationally accepted practices and procedures. The purpose of this Whistleblower Policy is to:
- Provide a mechanism for Saarathi employees, contractors, and consultants to confidentially voice serious concerns or escalate matters without fear of reprisal, dismissal, or discriminatory treatment.
- Encourage reporting of issues that may lead to financial or non-financial loss or damage Saarathi’s reputation.
- Ensure Saarathi can handle reports effectively while safeguarding the identity of the Whistleblower and securely storing information provided.
- Establish processes to protect Whistleblowers from retaliation by internal or external parties.
2. Policy Statement
Every team member contributes to Saarathi’s reputation by adhering to the highest ethical and behavioral standards. All employees, contractors, and consultants are expected to demonstrate professionalism in their roles, supporting Saarathi’s compliance with its Code of Conduct and applicable laws.
Saarathi fosters a culture that encourages raising concerns about unacceptable practices or misconduct without fear. We are committed to compliance with the Australian Standards on Whistleblower Protection Programs for Entities (AS 8004-2003).
No action will be taken against individuals who, in good faith, report concerns that are not substantiated by investigation. However, disciplinary action may be taken against individuals making malicious or false allegations.
3. Definitions
Reportable Conduct includes but is not limited to:
- Illegal, dishonest, fraudulent, or corrupt activities.
- Breaches of Commonwealth or state legislation or local authority by-laws.
- Violations of industry practices or Saarathi’s Code of Conduct.
- Gross mismanagement or significant waste of resources.
- Unsafe work practices or breaches of environmental standards.
- Serious improper conduct or any action likely to cause financial or non-financial harm to Saarathi.
A whistleblower refers to any employee, contractor, consultant, or supplier who reports knowledge of wrongdoing within Saarathi.
4. Procedure
4.1 Reportable Conduct
Employees should report concerns regarding Reportable Conduct to a designated Whistleblower Protection Officer in person or in writing, marked “Confidential.” If this is not appropriate, concerns may be raised with the Managing Partner.
Whistleblowers are not required to provide irrefutable evidence but must raise concerns in good faith. Saarathi encourages early reporting of suspicions of Reportable Conduct.
4.2 Confidentiality
Anonymous reports will be considered, but anonymity may limit the ability to investigate. Whistleblowers preferring anonymity should inform the Whistleblower Protection Officer at the earliest opportunity. Anonymity will be preserved, except where disclosure is required by law.
Information provided by the Whistleblower will be held securely and shared only with consent or if legally required.
4.3 Investigation
Whistleblower Protection Officers at Saarathi include:
- Head of People and Culture
- Chief Operating Officer
- Risk and Quality Manager
Investigations will follow a thorough and impartial process, adhering to Australian Standards (AS 8004-2003) wherever practical.
4.4 Outcome
Upon completing an investigation, the Whistleblower Protection Officer will:
- Ensure appropriate action is taken for verifiable Reportable Conduct.
- Inform the Managing Partner of findings and outcomes.
- Report systemic or recurring issues to those with authority to address them.
4.5 Feedback
The Whistleblower will be informed of investigation outcomes while respecting the privacy of others involved and maintaining Saarathi’s confidentiality standards.
4.6 Consequences of Reporting
Proper Reporting:
Whistleblowers who raise concerns in good faith are protected from job loss, harassment, victimization, or discrimination. Saarathi will take action against anyone engaging in retaliation, in accordance with its Workplace Behavior Policy.
Improper Reporting:
Deliberately false or malicious reports will be treated as misconduct and addressed under Saarathi’s Workplace Behavior Policy.
5. References
- Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth)
- Whistleblower Protection Programs for Entities (AS 8004-2003)
6. Related Policies
- Confidentiality Policy
- Grievance Resolution Policy
- Workplace Behavior Policy
7. Policy History
Policy Title: Whistleblower Policy
Effective Date: 30/11/2024
Issue Date: 30/11/2024
Authorised by: Saarathi Executive Board