Australia gets Compact network

An Australian network of the United Nations Global Compact has been established.

The network was set up at the tenth National Business Leaders Forum on Sustainable Development in Canberra by Nick Sherry, Australia’s superannuation and corporate law minister, and Georg Kell, executive director of the Compact, which promotes the business principles of human and labour rights, environmental responsibility and the fight against corruption.

The Australian network will be housed by the St James Ethics Centre, the Sydney headquarters of a non-profit body that provides a forum for the support and exploration of business ethics.

‘This is a very significant initiative,’ said Sherry. ‘At a time when transparency, trust and confidence are emerging as key issues for both business and the community, it is an important and practical step in clearing the path for companies to develop their responsible business practices both locally and internationally.’

Rosemary Sainty, the centre’s head of responsible business practice, said: ‘St James Ethics Centre will establish a vibrant inclusive Australian network of UN Global Compact signatories, which will reflect an Australian perspective on the Compact’s principles and provide practical help for Australian business to integrate into their business practices.’