Policies and practices

Code of Conduct

This Code sets out expectations for how we act, solve problems and make decisions. Our Code of Conduct is the ultimate guide for how we do things at Commonwealth Bank. It describes the standards of conduct we expect. The Code connects our Purpose, Values Expectations (with a ‘Should We?’ test) and key Group Policies to help us to deliver the right outcomes for all our stakeholders.

Code of Conduct (PDF)

Banking Code of Practice

The Banking Code of Practice (the Code) sets out the standards of practice and service in the Australian banking industry for individual and small business customers and their guarantors.

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Corporate Governance Statement

The Commonwealth Bank Group is committed to ensuring its policies and practices reflect the highest standard of corporate governance. The Board has adopted a comprehensive framework of Corporate Governance Guidelines, designed to properly balance performance and compliance.

Corporate Governance Statement

Our approach to tax

As one of the largest corporate taxpayers in Australia, we are committed to being a responsible corporate taxpayer and acting with the highest integrity in complying with all prevailing tax laws.

Tax transparency code (PDF)

UK Tax Strategy (PDF)

Group whistleblower policy

We are committed to embedding a ‘speak up’ culture. Our Group Whistleblower Policy and procedures prescribe that reports are treated appropriately and the employee raising the concern is protected.

More about our SpeakUP program

Political donations

Our Policy precludes the Group from making political donations. We may pay to attend events hosted by political parties with a business audience. We may be required to disclose such payments under relevant electoral laws. 

Anti-bribery and corruption

We are committed to embedding a zero appetite culture towards bribery, corruption and facilitation payments across all areas and levels of the business.

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Anti-money laundering/counter terrorism

Our Anti-money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing program sets out how the Group identifies, mitigates and manages money laundering and terrorism financing risk.

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Managing fraud

Our Fraud Policy defines the Group’s fraud control principles, mandatory requirements and accountabilities. It clearly articulates that the Group does not tolerate fraud and is committed to promoting and maintaining a sound ethical culture.

Group Fraud Policy

Economic and trade sanctions

Our Group-wide economics and trade sanctions policy acts as the basis for the development of appropriate internal procedures. We are committed to ensuring employees understand the importance of sanctions compliance.

Economic and Trade Sanctions Policy

Stakeholder engagement

Achieving our vision requires us to build trusted and mutually beneficial relationships with our stakeholders, which supports our long term success and sustainability.

Stakeholder Engagement Approach (PDF)

Remuneration principles

Our remuneration principles have been designed to support a remuneration approach that aligns with our vision, values and strategy, is appropriate to changing market conditions, and seek to comply with regulatory requirements.

Remuneration Principles (PDF)

Foreign Exchange Cost of Service Standard

We are committed to providing customers with the best outcomes, which includes fair and reasonable pricing for their foreign exchange transactions. Our Foreign Exchange Cost of Service Standard defines our Global Markets and Treasury’s requirements and accountabilities with respect to foreign exchange pricing. 

FX Cost of Service Client  Disclosure (PDF)

FX Order Execution and Handling Client Disclosure (PDF)

Last Look Disclosure

Customer Tax Information

Commonwealth Bank group has committed to a new global standard aimed at reducing tax evasion by sharing information about foreign tax residents with in Australia. This requires us to collect tax residency information from our customers.

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