Category
Policy
Description
Last Reviewed
General A1 Internal Audit Charter Internal Auditing is an independent and objective assurance and consulting activity to improve the operations of Southern Cross Housing. It assists Southern Cross Housing in accomplishing its objectives by bringing a systematic and disciplined approach to evaluating and improving the effectiveness of governance, risk management and internal control. 15/08/2018
General A3 Staff Code of Conduct Staff Code of Conduct 24/07/2024
General A4 Director Code of Conduct Director Code of Conduct 23/06/2021
General A5 SCH – Customer Service Charter SCH – Customer Service Charter 02/08/2024
General Authority to Act Authority to Act 13/11/2023
General F1 Supplier- Receivable Management The purpose of this policy is to describe the criteria and circumstances for the recovery and write-off of debts owed to SCH. 26/03/2020
General M1 DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY POLICY DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY POLICY 04/03/2024
General M10 Privacy The purpose of this policy is to outline SCHs policy for collection, storage, use, sharing and destruction of personal information. 29/05/2023
General M11 Conflicts of Interest The purpose of this policy is to outline the requirements for reporting and managing of conflicts of interest. 13/12/2018
General M12 Social Media Usage The purpose of this policy is to guide staff on acceptable use of their own personal social media accounts. The Social Media Business Use policy relates to the administration and content on SCH’s social media accounts. 31/08/2017
General M13 Mandatory Child Protection Reporting The purpose of this policy is to advise staff on their responsibilities as a mandatory reporter.
Mandatory reporters in NSW should use the Mandatory Reporter Guide (MRG) if they have concerns that a child or young person is at risk of being neglected or physically, sexually, or emotionally abused or exposed to Domestic Violence.		 23/08/2017
General M14 Work Health Safety Southern Cross Housing (SCH) is committed to protecting the health and safety of all persons in the workplace including staff members, volunteers, clients, contractors, and visitors. 15/06/2023
General M17 Purchasing The purpose of this policy is to advise staff on the processes to follow for acquisition of goods or services on behalf of SCH. 15/06/2023
General M18 Salary Packaging The purpose of this policy is to support Southern Cross Housing’s (SCH) commitment to supportive and flexible working arrangements for staff, and guide employees and payroll staff on the arrangements for salary packaging with SCH. Salary packaging is a benefit and retention strategy for existing staff, and an important element in developing SCH’s reputation as an employer of choice in a competitive marketplace. 29/02/2024
General M19 Corporate Credit Cards The purpose of this policy is to advise staff on the correct usage of Credit cards issued by SCH. 30/04/2024
General M2 Recruitment and Selection The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to managers and selection panel members on recruitment of staff. 24/07/2024
General M20 Complaints The purpose of this policy is to guide staff and complainants on the management of complaints received. 27/02/2023
General M21 Internal Grievance Resolution The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to staff and managers on how to deal with conflicts in the workplace, and internal complaints about the work environment. 24/07/2024
General M22 Workplace Bullying and Harassment The purpose of this policy is to develop a supportive workplace and provide a clear statement of expectations of all staff in respect to conduct that may constitute workplace bullying and harassment. The policy will act as a guide to SCH’s approach to concerns or complaints about
workplace bullying.		 28/11/2024
General M23 Notification The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to staff and directors regarding when, and what type of matters must be notified to the Registrar. 23/11/2023
General M24 Managing Employee Performance The purpose of this policy is to guide staff on the performance management standards expected at SCH. Performance management is a two-way dialogue that includes goal setting, employee development and regular employee discussions. The policy will guide supervisors on the process of the performance review, managing under performance, and taking appropriate course of action when dealing with misconduct. 07/02/2019
General M26 Staff Eligibility for SCH Housing The purpose of this policy is to advise staff on eligibility, allocation, and tenancy management for Southern Cross Housing (SCH) properties for eligible SCH staff. 24/09/2021
General M27 Domestic and Family Violence To advise staff and managers of assistance available for staff experiencing domestic violence. 11/08/2020
General M28 Rostered Days Off for Managers The purpose of this policy is to advise managers on the accrual and use of rostered days off. 24/09/2021
General M29 Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) This policy outlines the procedures for use of personal information technology and communication devices for work by SCH staff. 23/10/2018
General M3 Corporate Uniforms The purpose of this policy is to outline SCH’s corporate uniform and personal grooming requirements for staff. 18/04/2023
General M31 Parental Leave Policy The purpose of this policy is to outline the provisions for Parental Leave for staff of Southern Cross Housing (SCH). This policy informs staff of their entitlements to Parental Leave and its application at SCH. 07/02/2022
General M32 Ending Employment The purpose of this policy is to advise managers and staff of the requirements for ending permanent employment with SCH. 15/06/2023
General M33 Engagement of Contractors The purpose of this policy is to ensure that Contractors engaged by SCH, for works performed under the license of SCH as head contractor for a project, comply with WHS policies and control plans as part of their contractual obligations and that they monitor and review their own work practices, by hazard identification and risk control management. It will also provide reference to relevant WHS information and documents required to be engaged as a Contractor to perform works for SCH. 04/03/2020
General M34 Recruitment of Non-Executive Directors To outline the principles and process for engagement of new Non-Executive Board members. 27/02/2024
General M35 Visitors to SCH Offices The purpose of this policy is to advise SCH staff of the requirements for external business partners, family members and friends visiting SCH offices. 25/07/2023
General M36 Maintenance Contractor Management To guide SCH property services staff on the process for identifying and managing underperforming maintenance contractors. 26/03/2020
General M37 Working from Home The purpose of this policy is to guide staff and supervisors on approval of arrangements for home-based work. 15/06/2023
General M39 Unreasonable Client Conduct The purpose of this policy is to provide Southern Cross Housing (SCH) staff with appropriate intervention and management strategies to deal with aggressive clients or traumatic incidents in the course of their duties. 20/09/2023
General M4 Leave (excl. Parental – Adoption Leave) The purpose of this policy is to outline accrual and usage of leave by SCH staff. 27/02/2023
General M40 Alerts Management The purpose of this policy is to provide advice and to direct staff, managers, and contractors regarding the required process for determining a valid alert management process. 14/09/2023
General M41 Board Conflict of Interest policy Board Conflict of Interest policy 18/05/2022
General M42 Whistleblower The purpose of this policy is to encourage reporting of wrongdoing that is of legitimate concern by providing a convenient and safe reporting mechanism and protection for people who make serious wrongdoing disclosures. 22/02/2022
General M43 Workplace Hazards and Incidents This Policy sets out the steps to be taken in the event of an incident involving one or more staff members, volunteers and Directors whilst undertaking their work duties at Southern Cross Housing. 03/08/2023
General M44 Secondary Employment Employment at Southern Cross Housing carries with it an obligation to act in the public interest. Accordingly, employees must abide by standards of professional behaviour that promote and maintain public confidence and trust in Southern Cross Housing. These standards are set out in Southern Cross Housing’s Code of Conduct. This policy does not aim to unreasonably restrict the capacity of employees to earn other income — particularly lower paid workers; casuals and part-time staff, but to ensure that staff performance is not likely to be impacted and conflicts of interest are managed. 14/09/2023
General M45 Office Access The purpose of this policy is to advise staff of the installation of CCTV surveillance systems at SCH Offices, and the use of SCH keys or key fobs, providing a safe physical environment for staff and clients and as an incident risk management tool under the requirements of the Work Health & Safety Act 2011 and the WHS Regulations 2011. 23/11/2023
General M46 COVID 19 Southern Cross Housing (SCH) recognises COVID-19 creates health and safety risks in the workplace.
Vaccination is a measure that may reduce risks associated with COVID-19 in the workplace. This policy sets out SCH’s approach to COVID-19 vaccinations for employees and sits alongside other measures already in place to manage the risks posed by COVID-19, including a Pandemic Action Plan, WHS Manual, WHS Policy. The objectives of this policy are to:

  • ensure we can comply with our occupational health and safety obligations to employees
    and others who enter our workplaces.
  • protect our employees, contractors, visitors, and clients.
  • monitor and reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 in the workplace.
 24/04/2024
General M47 Child Safe Policy The purpose of this policy is to guide staff on their responsibilities to ensure that children are protected from harm, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. 11/04/2023
General M48 Partnerships The purpose of this policy and procedure is to create a framework for establishing, managing, and evaluating partnership agreements so that their maximum potential benefits can be achieved. This documentation guarantees that partnership agreement activities provide value to SCH in terms of return on investment and are consistent with SCH’s values and strategic objectives. It also ensures that opportunities are efficiently coordinated and evaluated in a just and comprehensive manner and are managed and evaluated systematically to meet SCH’s requirements. 24/04/2024
General M49 Anti-Discrimination Policy Southern Cross Housing (SCH) is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment that promotes diversity, equality, and respect for all individuals, regardless of their race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic as defined by Australian laws. SCH strongly believe that everyone
deserves fair and equal treatment and are committed to eliminating discrimination and fostering a culture of inclusivity in all aspects of our operations.		 15/06/2023
General M5 Study-FINAL The purpose of this policy is to outline arrangements for approval of study activities during Working Hours, supports provided by SCH to encourage the professional developments of its staff and reimbursement of study related expenses. 14/09/2023
General M50 Drugs and Alcohol Alcohol and drug use is an important occupational health and safety issue. This policy seeks to reduce the risks posed by the use of alcohol or drugs (including prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications) in the workplace. It aims to ensure that Southern Cross Housing employees are able to carry out their duties in a safe and responsible manner. 25/09/2023
General M51 Unreasonable Client Conduct The purpose of this policy is to guide staff in the identification of and management of Unreasonable Complainant Conduct. 29/02/2024
General M52 Centrepay Policy The purpose of this policy is to provide SCH staff with clear instructions and direction regarding the procedures and responsibilities involved in accessing, gathering, and maintaining customer personal data while facilitating Centrepay services. 12/02/2024
General M53 Right to Disconnect Policy The purpose of this policy is to address all employees’ right to disconnect as set out in the Fair Work Act 2009 (Ctw) in accordance with Southern Cross Housing’s (SCH) business needs and statutory obligations, and to provide rules and guidance. 23/08/2024
General M6 Travel The purpose of this policy is to outline entitlements and approval requirements for staff travelling on official business. 23/11/2023
General M7 Motor Vehicles The purpose of this policy is to confirm arrangements for the use, maintenance, and replacement of SCH motor vehicles. 05/04/2022
General M8 Gifts The purpose of this policy is to guide staff on the receipt and reporting of gifts. 25/07/2023
General M8b Fraud Corruption Control The purpose of this policy is to articulate SCH’s commitment to the prevention, detection, response and monitoring of fraud and corrupt activities. This policy, and the Annual Audit Plan, are key components of good governance and will establish the structure to address fraud and corruption risks and to detect and respond to fraud and corruption. 25/06/2024
General M9 Merchant Services The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to staff on the use and management of merchant EFTPOS facilities. 14/09/2023
General SCH WHS Manual v1.1 (5) SCH WHS Manual 09/05/2024
General Service Charter- Southern Cross Housing Service Charter- Southern Cross Housing 07/09/2022
General T1 Treasury Policy This document provides a statement of policies of Southern Cross Community Housing Ltd with respect to financial risk management. 28/02/2024
General T1 Under Occupancy The purpose of this policy is to clarify responsibilities under Section 148 of the Residential Tenancy Act 2010 in relation to SCH managed properties. 28/11/2022
General T10 Tenancy Reinstatement The purpose of this policy is to provide for tenancy reinstatement in circumstances where a former tenant was justified in vacating their property. 18/04/2023
General T11 Managing Rent Arrears The purpose of this policy is to outline the process for managing rental arrears. 28/11/2022
General T11b Managing Non-Rent Arrears The purpose of this policy is to outline the process for notification and management of Non-rent Arrears. 08/03/2017
General T12 Managing Non-Rent Breaches of Tenancy Agreements The purpose of this policy is to clarify how to manage breaches of tenancy agreements, including issue of Strike Notices to tenants. 15/06/2023
General T13 Tenant Vehicle Parking The purpose of this policy is to outline tenant obligations in parking vehicles. 11/04/2019
General T14 Ending a Tenancy The purpose of this policy is to outline the processes for ending a tenancy. 11/04/2023
General T15 Water Charges The purpose of this policy is to outline tenant rights and responsibilities in relation to water usage charges. 23/08/2017
General T16 Alterations Additions The purpose of this policy is to outline tenant responsibilities relating to alterations or additions to property. 25/06/2024
General T17 Periodic Inspections The purpose of this policy is to outline SCH and tenant responsibilities for property care. 24/04/2024
General T18 Tenant Damage The purpose of this policy is to guide tenants and staff on minimising and charging tenant damage. 08/01/2024
General T19 Tenant Transfers The purpose of this policy is to outline the circumstances under which tenant initiated, and management-initiated transfers may be requested and approved. 30/06/2017
General T2 Absence from Property The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance on approving short-term absences from SCH properties. 08/03/2017
General T20 Temporary Accommodation Tenant Contributions The purpose of this policy is to advise support agencies of the requirements to collect temporary accommodation rent contributions from Occupants. 29/02/2024
General T21 Eviction Procedure The purpose of this procedure is to outline the processes for the eviction of tenants whilst minimising the risk to SCH staff. 18/07/2023
General T21B Eviction Procedure and Guide The purpose of this procedure is to outline the processes for the eviction of tenants whilst minimising the risk to SCH staff. 18/07/2023
General T22 Recognition as a Tenant The purpose of this policy is to guide SCH staff on assessing applications for recognition as a tenant by occupants of a Social Housing property. 03/08/2023
General T23 Prohibited Drugs The purpose of this policy is to advise staff on management of illicit drug use and/or manufacture in SCH properties. 28/06/2023
General T24 Appeals The purpose of this policy is to guide tenants on the process for appealing SCH decisions and how appeals will be assessed by SCH. 25/10/2017
General T25 Private Rental Assistance The purpose of this policy is to guide staff on eligibility and assessment of applications for private rental assistance. 29/02/2024
General T26 Disability Modifications Funding The purpose of this policy is to guide staff on approval of funding for Disability Modifications. 25/07/2023
General T27 Scholarships The purpose of this policy is to advise applicants and SCH staff on eligibility and assessment requirements for SCH Tenant Scholarship Program. 24/04/2024
General T28 Eligibility Review Management To guide SCH tenancy staff on the conduct of eligibility reviews for existing tenants and management of tenancies found to be ineligible for Social Housing. 01/02/2019
General T29 Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults This policy outlines the process that staff must follow in the event of allegations or incidents of violence, abuse, neglect, exploitation, or discrimination towards vulnerable adult tenants living in SCH managed properties, by support providers. 07/02/2022
General T3 Keys to Property The purpose of this policy is to ensure accountable custody of property keys and timely access to property by tenants. 25/07/2023
General T30 Start Work Bonus The purpose of this policy is to advise SCH staff and tenants of the arrangements to apply when an SCH Social Housing tenant or approved occupant commences employment for the first time. 25/07/2023
General T31 National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS) The purpose of this policy is to advise tenants and staff of their rights and responsibilities under the National Rental Affordability Scheme. 25/07/2023
General T32 Managing Housing for a Registrable Person The purpose of this policy is to advise staff of their legal and administrative responsibilities when handling information about registrable persons and managing applications or tenancies of registrable persons. 24/04/2024
General T33 Welfare Checks The purpose of this policy is to create a standardized method of performing welfare checks. 29/02/2024
General T34 Hardship Policy The purpose of this policy is to outline how Southern Cross Housing will assist tenants who are experiencing financial hardship due to the global pandemic related to Coronavirus (COVID-19). 14/04/2020
General T35 Property Clean Up To guide SCH property and tenancy staff on the process for conducting property clean-ups. 14/09/2023
General T36 Local Allocation Strategies The purpose of a Local Allocation Strategy is to enhance the sustainability of communities by addressing specific community issues or needs. 25/06/2024
General T37 Community Engagement This policy outlines Southern Cross Housing’s (SCH) approach to engaging with our tenants and stakeholders and provides guidance to SCH employees in implementing Community Engagement activities. 18/04/2023
General T38 Neighbour Disputes The purpose of this policy is to promote neighbourhood respect, understanding and reconciliation. To equip and empower tenants and their neighbours to resolve disputes. To provide Southern Cross Housing (SCH) clear organisational practice for managing neighbour disputes. 28/06/2023
General T39 Maintenance Policy The purpose of this policy is to inform tenants how SCH will provide repairs and maintenance services. 06/04/2022
General T4 Categorising Ex Tenants The purpose of this policy is to give guidance to staff on classification of ex tenants for the purposes of providing a rental reference and decisions on whether they are eligible for future housing. 15/06/2023
General T40 Exclusion Orders Policy The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance to staff on the principal reasons for, and the process required when issuing an Exclusion Order. 28/11/2022
General T5 Pets The purpose of this policy is to advise the obligations for keeping pets at SCH managed properties and the process for approving pets. 23/06/2022
General T6a Application and Eligibility The purpose of this policy is to outline eligibility and application requirements for social housing managed by SCH. 18/04/2023
General T6b Application and Eligibility-Affordable Housing The purpose of this policy is to outline eligibility and application requirements for Affordable Housing managed by SCH. 25/07/2023
General T7 Allocations-Social Housing The purpose of this policy is to outline the process for allocation of properties to Social housing tenants. 24/04/2024
General T7a Allocations Affordable Housing The purpose of this policy is to outline the process for allocation of properties to Affordable Housing tenants. 25/07/2023
General T8 Rent – Social Housing The purpose of this policy is to outline the process for calculation of rent payable by tenants of SCH Social Housing properties. 07/12/2021
General T8a Rent – Affordable Housing The purpose of this policy is to outline the process for calculation of rent payable by tenants of SCH Affordable Housing properties. 25/07/2023
General T9 Establishing a Tenancy The purpose of this policy is to outline the process for commencement of a new Social Housing tenancy with SCH. 12/03/2024
General T9a Establishing a Tenancy – Affordable Housing The purpose of this policy is to outline the process for commencement of a new Affordable Housing tenancy with SCH. 25/07/2023
General WHS Manual WHS Manual 17/02/2022