Whistleblower Policy
- Last Updated: Sep 2026
Introduction
Kowanj Australasia Limited is committed to maintaining a culture of honesty, accountability, integrity, and ethical conduct across all areas of the organisation.
This Whistleblower Policy provides a safe and confidential process for individuals to report suspected misconduct, unlawful behaviour, unethical conduct, or serious concerns relating to the operations of Kowanj Australasia Limited.
Kowanj encourages people to speak up about concerns without fear of retaliation, victimisation, or unfair treatment.
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
- Encourage the reporting of misconduct or unethical behaviour
- Support transparency and accountability within the organisation
- Protect individuals who raise concerns in good faith
- Provide a clear reporting and response process
- Ensure concerns are managed appropriately and confidentially
Scope
This policy applies to:
- Employees
- Volunteers
- Board members
- Contractors and consultants
- Students and placement participants
- Suppliers and service providers
- Community partners and stakeholders
The policy applies to concerns relating to the activities, operations, or conduct connected to Kowanj Australasia Limited.
Reportable Conduct
Individuals are encouraged to report concerns involving serious or improper conduct, including:
- Fraud or theft
- Corruption or dishonest conduct
- Financial misconduct
- Unlawful activities
- Misuse of organisational resources
- Serious breaches of organisational policies
- Unsafe practices or serious risks to health and safety
- Discrimination, harassment, bullying, or victimisation
- Conflicts of interest
- Improper conduct affecting participants, volunteers, staff, or communities
- Attempts to conceal misconduct
Who Can Make a Report
A report may be made by any individual connected to Kowanj Australasia Limited, including current or former:
- Employees
- Volunteers
- Board members
- Contractors
- Participants
- Community partners
- Suppliers
- Supporters or stakeholders
How to Make a Report
Concerns may be raised verbally or in writing.
Reports should include as much relevant information as possible, including:
- A description of the concern
- Relevant dates or events
- Names of people involved where known
- Any supporting information or evidence
Reports can be submitted through:
Email: info@kowanj.com.au
Phone: 0474 760 948
Confidentiality
Kowanj Australasia Limited will take reasonable steps to protect the confidentiality of individuals making reports.
Information relating to a disclosure will only be shared where necessary to properly assess, investigate, or respond to the concern, or where required by law.
Protection Against Retaliation
Kowanj does not tolerate retaliation against any person who raises a concern in good faith.
Individuals who make reports honestly and reasonably will not be:
- Dismissed or disadvantaged
- Harassed or intimidated
- Subject to discrimination or victimisation
- Threatened for speaking up
Any retaliatory behaviour may result in disciplinary action.
False or Misleading Reports
Kowanj encourages honest reporting.
Reports made maliciously, knowingly false, or intended to harm another person may result in appropriate action.
However, a report made in good faith will not result in action against the reporting individual simply because the concern could not be substantiated.
Assessment and Investigation
All reports will be reviewed respectfully, fairly, and appropriately.
Depending on the nature of the concern, Kowanj may:
- Conduct an internal review or investigation
- Seek external advice or support
- Refer matters to relevant authorities
- Take corrective or disciplinary action where necessary
Investigations will be managed as confidentially as possible while ensuring procedural fairness.
Record Keeping
Kowanj Australasia Limited will maintain appropriate records relating to disclosures, investigations, and outcomes in accordance with privacy and confidentiality obligations.
Policy Awareness
Kowanj will promote awareness of this policy among staff, volunteers, board members, and relevant stakeholders to encourage ethical conduct and responsible reporting.
Contact Information
Kowanj Australasia Limited
552 Victoria St, North Melbourne VIC 3051
Email: info@kowanj.com.au
Phone: 0474 760 948
Policy Review
This policy will be reviewed regularly to ensure it remains effective, current, and aligned with organisational and legal requirements.
