Whistleblower Policy

Whistleblower Policy Statement

MATES Australia is committed to ethical conduct, transparency, and accountability in all aspects of our work.

This policy empowers individuals connected to MATES including employees, contractors, and volunteers to report suspected misconduct or serious wrongdoing without fear of retaliation. We encourage disclosures made in good faith and commit to protecting the identity,
wellbeing, and legal rights of those who speak up.

All reports will be treated seriously, handled confidentially, and investigated appropriately. Victimisation or detrimental treatment of whistleblowers will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

By creating a safe pathway for disclosure, we strengthen our organisation, protect our people, and uphold the trust of the communities we serve.

Roles and Responsibilities
Whistleblower Protection Officer (WPO)

• Receive and manage disclosures confidentially and sensitively.
• Conduct or coordinate investigations into disclosures where appropriate.
• Protect whistleblowers from any form of retaliation or detriment.
• Monitor risks and implement adjustments to protect whistleblowers.

Board of Directors

• Oversee the organisation’s compliance with whistleblower legislation.
• Review high-level trends, risks or matters arising from whistleblower disclosures (while maintaining confidentiality).
• Ensure systems are in place to protect whistleblowers and respond to serious allegations.

Management

• Champion a culture of transparency and accountability.
• Ensure appropriate procedures are in place to manage disclosures and investigations.
• Support the WPO in fulfilling their responsibilities.
• Encourage a safe and open culture where people feel supported to speak up.
• Immediately escalate any disclosures to the Whistleblower Protection Officer.
• Support staff who have made a disclosure, and ensure no detriment occurs.

Workers

• Raise concerns in good faith about suspected misconduct, fraud, or other reportable conduct.
• Maintain confidentiality and avoid discussing disclosures with others.
• Cooperate fully with any investigation if requested.

Breaches of the Policy

Failure to comply with this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or engagement.

Review and Continuous Improvement

This policy will be reviewed every two years or sooner if required by legislation or organisational changes.

How to Make a Report
Primary Contact (Whistleblower Protection Officer)
Name: Jorgen Gullestrup
Email: jgullestrup@mates.org.au
Phone: 0499 180 049
Mail: Private & Confidential – Whistleblower Report
Jorgen Gullestrup
Level 1 6/22 Baildon St
Kangaroo Point QLD 4169