Code of Conduct | Drivers Foundation

Drivers Foundation — Code of Conduct (Australia)

Version 1.0 — Effective 15 October 2025

ABN: 22 690 339 407
Contact: info@driversfoundation.au
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

1. Purpose & Scope

This Code of Conduct (Code) sets the standards of behaviour for all Drivers Foundation members, guests, participants, volunteers, officials, and representatives (collectively, Participants). It applies to all Foundation activities, including events, drive and track days, online forums, social media, and any interaction where Participants represent the Foundation.

2. Values & Expectations

Respect: Treat all people with courtesy, dignity, and inclusion; no harassment, bullying, discrimination, or intimidation.
Integrity: Be honest and act lawfully; avoid conflicts of interest and do not bring the Foundation into disrepute.
Safety: Prioritise safety at all times; comply with event instructions, venue/track rules, and applicable laws.
Stewardship: Respect vehicles, venues, property, and the environment; minimise noise and waste.

3. Legal Compliance & Event Rules

Hold any required licences and permits; drive responsibly and within the law.
Comply with all event/track owner rules and marshal instructions; sign all required waivers before participating.
Zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; random breath/saliva testing may apply where permitted.
Wear mandated safety gear (e.g., helmets, clothing, belts) and use vehicles that are fit for purpose and safe.

4. Insurance & Risk

Participation in driving and motorsport activities involves inherent risks. Participants are solely responsible for arranging any insurance they consider appropriate (e.g., track day vehicle damage cover, personal accident insurance). Neither Drivers Foundation, event organisers, sponsors, nor venue owners provide or accept liability for any insurance cover unless expressly stated.

5. Club Permit & Road Use (VIC)

Comply with VicRoads Club Permit Scheme requirements and all applicable road laws.
Use Club Permit vehicles only as permitted under the relevant scheme and conditions.
Provide truthful and accurate information for Club Permit applications; misuse may result in disciplinary action and referral to authorities.

6. Conduct at Events & Online

Follow organiser instructions and event schedules; arrive on time and prepared.
No aggressive behaviour, dangerous driving, burnouts, hooning, or behaviour likely to cause harm or reputational damage.
Abide by venue rules regarding speed limits, paddock etiquette, and parking.
Online conduct (forums/social media): be respectful, factual, and avoid defamatory, offensive, or misleading content.
Photography & media: respect others’ privacy and image preferences; comply with event photography guidance.

7. Social Media & Public Representation

Do not speak on behalf of the Foundation unless authorised.
Disclose any conflicts when discussing sponsors, products, or services.
Use Foundation name/logo only with prior written permission; no unauthorised commercial use.
Members and guests represent the Foundation at events and online and must uphold its reputation.

8. Alcohol, Drugs & Fitness to Participate

Zero tolerance for alcohol and illegal drugs while driving or operating vehicles.
Prescription medication: Participants must ensure they remain safe and legally permitted to drive.
The Foundation and event officials may refuse participation where safety is at risk.

9. Anti‑Harassment & Equal Opportunity

Harassment, bullying, discrimination, vilification, and sexual misconduct are prohibited.
Report concerns promptly to an event official or via info@driversfoundation.au for investigation.
The Foundation will take reasonable steps to protect reporters from victimisation.

10. Conflicts of Interest & Gifts

Declare any personal, financial, or business interest that could improperly influence Foundation activities.
Do not solicit or accept gifts, benefits, or hospitality that could reasonably be perceived to influence decisions.
Sponsorships and discounts must be used according to the terms provided by the third party.

11. Safety Reporting & Incident Management

Report unsafe conditions, near misses, or incidents immediately to organisers or venue staff.
Cooperate with incident investigations and provide truthful information.
In emergencies, follow marshal instructions and venue emergency procedures.

12. Privacy & Data

Personal information is handled in accordance with the Drivers Foundation Privacy Policy (Version 2.1, 15 October 2025). Do not share another person’s personal information without consent or other lawful basis.

13. Use of Member Benefits & Third‑Party Offers

Third‑party referrals, offers, and discounts are provided for convenience; the Foundation does not guarantee third‑party products or workmanship.
All dealings with third parties are between the Participant and the third party; Participants must perform their own due diligence.

14. Complaints & Reporting

Submit complaints or concerns to info@driversfoundation.au, or to an event official for urgent matters.
Provide clear details, supporting information, and desired outcomes where possible.
The Foundation will acknowledge and assess complaints and respond as soon as practicable.

15. Disciplinary Action

Breaches of this Code may result in verbal/written warnings, removal from events, suspension, or termination of membership or participation.
Serious misconduct (e.g., dangerous driving, harassment, fraud) may be referred to law enforcement or regulators.
The Foundation may refuse entry or participation where safety, legal, or reputational risks arise.

16. Relationship to Terms & Conditions

This Code operates alongside the Drivers Foundation Terms & Conditions (Australia) and Event Waivers. In the event of inconsistency, the Terms & Conditions or specific event regulations prevail.

17. Acknowledgement

By applying for or renewing membership, registering for an event, or attending any Foundation activity, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to comply with this Code of Conduct. Guests and participants must also agree to this Code as a condition of participation.

18. Review Cycle

This Code will be reviewed at least annually or following material incidents, regulatory changes, or significant operational updates.