Newcastle Art Space Code of Conduct

1. Acknowledgment of Country
Newcastle Art Space (NAS) acknowledges the Awabakal and Worimi peoples, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work, and create. We pay our deep respects to Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We honour their continuing connection to culture, land, waters, and community and are committed to walking alongside First Nations artists and communities through meaningful collaboration and cultural safety in our programs, partnerships and spaces.

2. Purpose
Newcastle Art Space (NAS) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment that fosters creativity, collaboration, and cultural expression. This Code of Conduct outlines the principles and expectations that guide behaviour across all our spaces, programs, and activities.

3. Scope
This Code applies to all individuals involved with NAS, including:

▪ Resident and exhibiting artists
▪ Staff, board members, and volunteers
▪ Workshop facilitators and participants
▪ Audiences and event attendees
▪ Contractors, collaborators, and partners

It covers all interactions at NAS-managed venues, online platforms, exhibitions, events, and community programs.

4. Our Values
▪ Respect: We treat each other with dignity and consider different backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities.
▪ Integrity: We conduct ourselves ethically, transparently, and with accountability.
▪ Inclusion: We actively welcome diversity and promote equitable access to artistic  opportunities.
▪ Safety: We provide a space that is physically, emotionally, and culturally safe for all.
▪ Freedom of Expression: We value artistic freedom while recognising the responsibility to engage respectfully and avoid harm.

5. Expected Behaviour
▪ Engage with others respectfully, regardless of background, identity, or ability.
▪ Obtain consent and acknowledge contributions in collaborative work.
▪ Respect property, artworks, and shared spaces.
▪ Uphold NAS’s reputation by acting professionally in all engagements.
▪ Comply with all applicable Australian laws and NAS policies.

6. Unacceptable Behavior NAS does not tolerate:
▪ Harassment, discrimination, or bullying, including based on gender, race, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or identity.
▪ Sexual harassment or unwelcome physical contact.
▪ Misuse of position, power, or influence.
▪ Theft, vandalism, or deliberate damage to property or artwork.

▪ Plagiarism or misappropriation of intellectual or cultural property, including First Nations cultural expressions.

 

7. Roles and Responsibilities
Clearly defining roles and responsibilities ensures that everyone involved with Newcastle Art Space understands their obligations and contributions. This promotes accountability, prevents misunderstandings, and supports a cohesive, respectful, and well-functioning creative environment.​

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Chairperson
▪ Lead the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities
▪ Represent NAS publicly and provide leadership on key issues
▪ Support the Manager and ensure effective governance practices

Board Secretary
▪ Maintain accurate records and documentation
▪ Ensure legal and procedural compliance
▪ Support communication between Board members and stakeholders

Board Members
▪ Act with integrity, care and accountability, upholding the mission, values and creative spirit of Newcastle Art Space.
▪ Support good governance by participating actively in decision-making, managing conflicts of interest, and maintaining confidentiality.
▪ Represent the organisation respectfully in the community, promoting inclusivity, cultural awareness and First Nations recognition.

Administrative Staff
▪ Provide operational support, client service, and coordination - Ensure policies and procedures are followed
▪ Maintain confidentiality and professionalism

Paid Staff
▪ Deliver and support high-quality artistic programming
▪ Promote inclusive and respectful creative environments
▪ Collaborate ethically and support NAS’s values

Artists in Residence
▪ Respect the shared studio environment and fellow artists
▪ Abide by NAS policies and engage professionally
▪ Contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, and respect

Volunteers
▪ Support NAS activities, events, and daily operations as agreed - Act respectfully and cooperatively with all community members
▪ Comply with all NAS policies, procedures, and safety protocols
▪ Represent NAS positively and reliably in their roles

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9. Legal Compliance
All individuals are expected to comply with relevant Commonwealth and NSW legislation, including but not limited to:
▪ Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (NSW)
▪ Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011 (NSW)
▪ Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW)
▪ Advocate for Children and Young People Act 2014 (NSW)
▪ Child Protection (Working with Children) Act 2012 (NSW)
▪ Crimes Act 1900 (NSW)
▪ Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 1988 (NSW)
▪ Public Interest Disclosure Act 2022 (NSW)
▪ Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth)
▪ Racial Discrimination Act 1975 (Cth)
▪ Racial Hatred Act 1995 (Cth)
▪ Age Discrimination Act 2004 (Cth)
▪ Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth)
▪ Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Amendment Act 2012 (Cth)
▪ Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission Act 1986 (Cth)
▪ Copyright Act 1968 (Cth)
▪ Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (Cth)

10. Reporting and Breaches
If you experience or witness conduct that breaches this Code, report it to the NAS Manager, Chairperson, or another designated representative. Reports will be handled sensitively and confidentially.

Breaches may result in:
▪ Verbal or written warnings
▪ Mediation or facilitated conversations
▪ Suspension or exclusion from NAS programs or spaces
▪ Termination of agreements or partnerships
▪ Referral to legal or regulatory authorities as required

11. Standards of Behavior
To support the implementation of this Code of Conduct, all individuals engaging with Newcastle Art Space (NAS) are expected to adhere to the following behavioural standards. These standards help ensure that NAS remains a safe, inclusive, and creative environment for all.

Respectful Communication
▪ Use inclusive and non-discriminatory language at all times.
▪ Listen actively and allow others to be heard without interruption.
▪ Engage in constructive dialogue and avoid personal attacks, shouting, or inflammatory comments.
▪ Be open to feedback and differing perspectives.

Professionalism and Accountability
▪ Arrive on time for meetings, workshops, and events; notify relevant contacts if delayed.
▪ Follow through on commitments and communicate clearly if expectations or responsibilities change.
▪ Keep NAS spaces clean, organised, and accessible for others.
▪ Maintain confidentiality regarding private or sensitive information shared in the course of NAS activities.

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Collaborative Practice
▪ Share resources and space fairly, respecting agreed bookings and communal areas.
▪ Attribute all contributors when presenting shared work or projects.
▪ Acknowledge and engage with Indigenous cultural protocols where relevant.
▪ Support fellow artists and staff through encouragement and cooperation.
Safe and Inclusive Environment
▪ Actively contribute to a welcoming atmosphere free from harassment, discrimination, and intimidation.
▪ Report inappropriate behaviour or safety concerns to a designated NAS representative.
▪ Be mindful of physical and psychological safety — yours and others'.
▪ Avoid bringing substances or engaging in behaviour that could impair safety or wellbeing.

Use of NAS Resources
▪ Use NAS equipment, materials, and digital platforms responsibly and in accordance with relevant policies.
▪ Seek permission before using another person’s tools, artworks, or personal items.
▪ Report any damage, faults, or safety hazards promptly.

12. Commitment to Cultural Respect
NAS reaffirms our respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and cultural heritage. We recognise the importance of self-determination and strive to create programs that reflect and celebrate First Nations voices and knowledge systems. We are committed to culturally safe practices and partnerships built on mutual respect and ongoing learning.

13. Review and Continuous Improvement
This Code of Conduct will be reviewed annually to ensure it reflects current legislation, ethical standards, and the evolving needs of our community. Feedback from members, staff, and stakeholders will inform revisions. Compliance with this Code will be evaluated through self-assessments and performance reviews where applicable.

Final Note
By participating in activities at Newcastle Art Space, you agree to uphold this Code and contribute to a respectful and thriving creative community.

Contact Officer
Company Secretary

Executive Endorsement
Chairperson | Board Members

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​NEWCASTLE ART SPACE | CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY | POL-01
Version 1 | Review Date 1 July 2026
Read Only: Wednesday, 22 October 2025
All printed copies uncontrolled