1. Purpose
The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust (the Trust) exists to empower Churchill Fellows to explore the world, gain knowledge, and return to share insights that benefit the nation. Upholding the highest ethical and professional standards ensures that this mission continues with integrity and respect for our communities, partners, and the Churchill legacy.
The purpose of this Code of Conduct is to set clear expectations for all Fellows during domestic and international activities, at events, in publications and online. In addition, the Code will:
- Ensure all Fellows act with integrity, respect and care in all interactions.
- Protect the Trust’s reputation and relationships with communities and partners.
- Provide clear guidance on behaviour and consequences for breaches.
Failure to comply may result in action by the Trust, up to and including revocation of privileges, withdrawal of funding or support, and reporting to relevant authorities where laws are breached.
2. Values
These values guide our actions and reflect the Churchill Trust’s mission, which is focused on the freedom to explore, the wisdom of travel and open-mindedness. The Trust aims to encourage innovation, knowledge-sharing, and public benefit:
- Integrity – We act honestly and uphold the reputation of the Trust and the Churchill legacy.
- Respect – We treat all people with courtesy, dignity, and cultural understanding, including international hosts.
- Humility – We approach our work with curiosity and openness. We recognise that our knowledge is never complete and that meaningful impact comes through learning from others.
- Curiosity and Excellence – We seek knowledge with rigour and share it openly to benefit others.
- Service and Reciprocity – We contribute to the Trust, its Fellows’ network, and the broader community. Our contribution does not end when the travel finishes; it continues through sharing and extending the knowledge gained.
- Diversity and Inclusion – We embrace different backgrounds, abilities, disciplines, and ideas, fostering a safe and inclusive environment.
- Stewardship – We use resources responsibly and acknowledge the generosity of those who support the Trust.
3. Standards of Conduct
All Fellows are expected to uphold these standards:
3.1 Representing the Trust
- Act as an ambassador for the Trust.
- Provide full and frank disclosure of relevant information to the Trust at all times.
- Maintain behaviour consistent with the Trust’s values and high ethical standards.
- Dress and communicate appropriately for local cultures and formal occasions.
- Avoid any activity that may damage the Trust’s reputation or credibility.
3.2 Respect for People and Communities
- Treat colleagues, hosts, Trust staff, and members of the public with courtesy, dignity, and inclusion.
- Acknowledge and respect cultural protocols, particularly when engaging with First Nations and international communities.
3.3 Legal and Ethical Compliance
- Comply with all laws, regulations, and local customs while in Australia or overseas.
- Avoid conflicts of interest or the appearance of such conflicts in Trust-related activities.
- Respect the confidentiality of Trust, partner, or host information, and protect private data.
3.4 Safety and Wellbeing
- Conduct activities safely, following appropriate health and safety guidelines.
- Use of alcohol and drugs must not put at risk the reputation of the Trust or Fellow safety.
- Seek support and raise concerns if you or others experience unsafe or inappropriate conduct.
3.5 Responsible Use of Resources
- Use Trust funds and networks responsibly and only for their intended purpose.
- Avoid misuse of the Trust name, brand, or reputation for personal gain.
- Ensure accuracy and honesty in reporting, research, and publications.
3.6 Social Media and Public Communication
- Ensure any public or online statements reflect the integrity of the Trust.
- Avoid posts or comments that could damage the Trust, its Fellows, or partners.
4. Breaches and Reporting
- Breaches of this Code may result in actions including formal warnings, withdrawal of privileges or funding, or, in severe cases, termination of the Fellowship.
- Where laws are breached, the Trust may notify relevant authorities.
- Reports of misconduct will be handled respectfully and, where possible, confidentially.
5. Commitment
All Churchill Fellows commit to uphold the purpose, values, and standards of conduct of the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust.