We've recently had questions from workers about what’s okay when it comes to taking home cans and bottles from work for recycling, and using your personal rewards card (e.g. Flybuys, Everyday Rewards) when buying goods for clients.
These might seem like small actions, but both can have serious implications for your job, your registration, and your professional reputation.
Can I take home bottles and cans from work for recycling?
Even if a client says it’s okay, you need to be extremely careful. If the home is owned or managed by the provider, then everything in that home – including what’s put in the bin – is usually considered company property. Taking bottles or cans from the bin, even for a good cause, can be seen as:
• Theft or misappropriation of company resources
• Personal gain while on shift
• A breach of your code of conduct or employment agreement
The bottom line is this: without clear written permission from your employer, you’re at risk of disciplinary action or worse.
Best practice is don’t remove cans, bottles or rubbish from the workplace unless your employer has given permission in writing.
If you want to support recycling, raise it with your team leader or manager. You could suggest any refund money go toward a client activity, fundraising, or a charity.
Can I use my own rewards card when shopping for clients or residents?
The short answer is no.
If you’re using client or a resident’s funds (including NDIS, petty cash, or grocery money) and you scan your personal rewards card to earn points or benefits, this can be viewed as:
• A conflict of interest
• A breach of the NDIS Code of Conduct
• A serious workplace policy violation
Even if a client says “it’s fine,” the concern is that they may not fully understand what the rewards system is, there’s a power imbalance, and you’re gaining a personal benefit while doing your job.
You could face disciplinary action, termination, or even be reported to the NDIS Quality & Safeguards Commission.
Never scan your own rewards card when buying things for clients. If it happens by accident, report it to your manager immediately.
Some providers support clients having their own rewards card, which can be used with proper documentation in the care plan.
As always, if you’re unsure about anything in your workplace or feel you’ve been unfairly treated for something like this, HACSU has your back. We’re here to support you with advice, representation, and making sure your rights are protected.
Contact HACSUassist on 1300 880 032 or email [email protected]