PRIVACY
KNZ-002
Purpose
To ensure compliance with the Privacy Act 2020, New Zealand (Act) including Information Privacy Principles.
This policy sets out how Kubota protects privacy in relation to personal information. How we collect, store, secure, use, provide access or update to, destroy and otherwise manage personal information, as defined by the Act. It provides procedures to ensure the integrity and accuracy of information stored, protection of privacy and from data breaches and guidelines for how any Privacy breaches are to be managed.
Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors or agents of Kubota who are responsible for handling and managing any aspect of personal information as defined by the Act. For clarity, this includes, but is not limited to; managing directors’, executives, employees, contractors, suppliers and agents acting on behalf of Kubota as well as any person or corporation (including a director or secretary of that corporation) that has entered into a Dealership Agreement with Kubota (Dealers).
Policy
Collection of Information
We collect personal information (including sensitive information) about individuals, including employees, independent contractors, suppliers and Dealers we deal with. We follow these principles in doing so:
- We must only collect personal information that is relevant and essential to our dealings with the person/s to whom the personal information relates.
- We only use personal information for the purpose it was collected, no other purpose unless the individual provides explicit consent or a law requires us to disclose.
- Wherever reasonably possible, we collect personal information directly from the person to whom it relates. In certain instances, we receive information about people from authorised third parties and resources.
- In relation to our employees we collect information, including as essential sensitive information, to enable and facilitate employment and to comply with a range of employment related law, as amended from time to time.
- For Dealers, commercial or consumer customers and suppliers representatives, we collect the minimum amount of personal information necessary in order to transact business and provide services. This may include basic contact information but may also extend to certain unique identifiers, such as Tax File Numbers, where necessary to transact particular types of business or provide requested services (the reason for collection should be explained to the individual).
Some of the products and services we provide include the delivery of services to Dealers in collaboration with other suppliers or manufacturers. Under these circumstances, we are provided with personal information which has been collected by a Dealer. In all situations where we obtain personal information from a third party, we confirm in writing that the:
- information is accurate and was acquired in accordance the Privacy Act 2020,
- third party is permitted to provide the information to us, and,
- third party is authorised to use the information for the purposes for which they are supplying it.
Where Kubota are delivering a product or service in collaboration with a third party, Kubota may share personal information it obtains with the other party to the extent reasonably necessary to deliver its products and services.
Use of Information
Kubota only uses personal information it collects for essential business purposes to enable the satisfaction of legal requirements such as in employment, or the provision of products and services to the individuals to whom the information relates.
Disclosure
Kubota will not disclose any personal information, including sensitive information, to a third party for any purpose other than for the primary purpose for which it was collected unless it is authorised, except where there is a legal requirement that Kubota must comply with in relation to disclosure.
Kubota may, in carrying out the primary purpose, engage third parties to act on our behalf. For example, we may engage information technology suppliers, marketing and advertising agencies, mailing and logistics providers and professional advisors. When we do so, we take steps to ensure any contracts governing these arrangements pass on obligations to third party organisations to require that they adopt the same Privacy Principles as Kubota.
If Kubota intends to disclose any personal information it collects from an individual in any other manner than those contemplated above, we must inform this at the time the information is collected.
Kubota will not disclose collected personal information to any person or entity located outside Australia or New Zealand unless:
- The explicit consent of the person to whom the information relates has been provided for the disclosure.
- The recipient of the information is subject to a law or binding scheme, that provides at least a substantially similar level of protection in respect of the use of personal information to that available under New Zealand law and the person to whom the information relates is directly able to enforce their rights in respect of that protection; or
- the disclosure is otherwise required in compliance with our obligations under an applicable law.
Data Integrity and Security
Kubota must take reasonable steps to ensure the information that is collected is complete, accurate and current. We must also take steps to ensure that information is protected from misuse, unauthorised access, inappropriate modification, or disclosure. Those who collect and handle personal information must do so in accordance with our systems and processes.
Kubota possess a separate policy “Securing Sensitive Information” which is required to be followed in order to prevent breaches of Privacy or Data Breaches.
Access and Correction
Should Kubota hold personal information about an individual, they (or their authorised legal representative) are entitled to provide Kubota with written updates or corrections in relation to the information. These will be assessed and updated where necessary.
In relation to certain information held, where relevant laws allow an individual may be able to obtain a copy of any personal information we hold which relates to them or request destruction of information.
Any requests for access to a copy of personal information held, correction (if not best dealt with by the collector) or destruction should be made to Kubota New Zealand’s Privacy Officer. Please email privacy@kubota.co.nz and include relevant identifying information, such as; your name, date of birth, applicable residential address, and other relevant information. Requests are generally considered and an initial response made within twenty business days of receiving a written request.
Destruction
All personal information no longer required shall be destroyed in accordance with the Act, or, as required by other legislation. A regular audit of personal information and destruction requirements shall be undertaken by the collector to ensure compliance.
Compliance with Policy and Procedures
There may be a range of consequences for Kubota employees and contractors or third parties where there is a failure to comply with the Privacy Act and Kubota’s relevant Policies and Procedures.
In respect to employees and contractors failure to comply may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment or contract under the ‘Managing Performance and Conduct’ Policies and Procedures. In respect to other parties, legal action may be contemplated or taken and/ or contractual arrangements terminated depending on the circumstances.
Procedures
Privacy and Data breaches
A potential privacy or data breach occurs when personal information is not managed in accordance with the Privacy Act and Information Privacy Principles, and/or, there is an external event that breaches the integrity or security of information.
Examples of data breaches which may result in a breach of privacy include, but are not limited to:
- When Kubota mistakenly provides personal information to the wrong person or an unauthorised person
- Where a password or login details are provided to and used by an unauthorised person to access information
- A hacking event where Kubota’s database/s containing collected personal information are illegally accessed or destroyed by individuals external to the organisation
- Where an employee or contractor removes records from the office and the information is misappropriated, lost or stolen
Kubota must adhere to its “Securing Sensitive Information” Policy to take steps to prevent privacy and data breaches.
Kubota will report privacy breaches that are likely to cause anyone serious harm, to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) no later than 72 hours after Kubota is aware of a notifiable privacy breach.
Privacy Complaints
Privacy complaints regarding any of the matters outlined in this Policy and Procedure or the application of relevant laws and consequent decisions should be made to Kubota’s Privacy Officer.
Email: privacy@kubota.co.nz
Address: Privacy Officer, Kubota Australia Pty Ltd 25-29 Permas Way, Truganina, VIC 3029 Australia
Phone: 0061 9394 4400
If you are not satisfied with the outcome, the matter may be referred to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC)
Contact details for the OPC are:
Website: https://www.privacy.org.nz/about-us/contact/
ANTI-BRIBERY AND CORRUPTION
KNZ_ALL XXX
Purpose
This policy sets out the responsibilities of directors, employees of Kubota New Zealand Limited (Kubota), and its suppliers and agents acting on behalf of Kubota as well as any person or corporation (including a director or secretary of that corporation) that has entered into a Dealership Agreement with Kubota in observing and upholding the prohibition on bribery, corruption and related improper conduct.
The document provides information and guidance on how to recognise and deal with instances of bribery or corruption.
Kubota is committed to complying with the laws and regulations of the countries in which its business operates. Bribery, corruption and the related improper conduct referred to in this policy are serious criminal offences for both the company and any individuals involved. This conduct is inconsistent with Kubota values.
Scope
This policy applies to all directors, employees of Kubota, suppliers and agents acting on behalf of Kubota as well as any person or corporation (including a director or secretary of that corporation) that has entered into a Dealership Agreement with Kubota
Definitions
Bribe is an offer, promise or giving of anything of value to improperly influence a person’s actions or decisions to gain or retain a business benefit. Bribery and corruption can take many forms including, the provision or acceptance of cash payments, facilitation payments, kickbacks, political contributions, charitable contributions, social benefits, gifts, travel, hospitality and rebates or reimbursements.
Bribe Acceptance is the act of accepting, or a demand or promise to accept, a bribe.
Some indications of bribery that may arise during working for or providing services to Kubota could include, but are not limited to:
- A party insisting on receiving a commission or fee payment before committing to sign up to a contract
- A party requesting payment in cash and/or refuses to sign a formal commission or fee agreement, or to provide an invoice or receipt for a payment made
- A party requesting that payment is made to a country or geographic location different from where the party resides or conducts business
- A party requesting an unexpected additional fee or commission to facilitate a service
- A party demanding lavish entertainment or gifts before commencing or continuing contractual negotiations or provision of services
- A party requesting that a payment is made to overlook potential legal violations
- A party insisting on the use of side letters or refusing to put terms agreed in writing
Public Official may include, but not be limited to, any of the following:
- a public official of a government or a municipal government
- an official of an association established by a government or a municipal government
- an official of an organization de facto controlled by a government or a municipal government
- an officer or staff of a public international organisation
- an officer or staff of a political party
- a candidate for public office
- a person acting in place of the persons described above
Corruption is the misuse of entrusted power or office, for private gain.
Policy
Directives
Directors, employees of Kubota, suppliers and agents acting on behalf of Kubota as well as any person or corporation (including a director or secretary of that corporation) that has entered into a Dealership Agreement with Kubota must:
- Understand and comply with this policy in all regards
- Not give, offer, accept, or request bribes, facilitation payments, secret commissions or other prohibited payments or engage in money laundering or cause any of them to be given, offered, accepted, or requested
- Not approve any offers, or make, accept, or request an irregular payment or other value, to win business or influence a business decision in favour of Kubota
- Comply with any reporting and approval processes in relation to Benefits, including gifts, entertainment, or hospitality
- Not offer or receive any benefit such as gifts, entertainment, or hospitality to or from public officials outside policy and approval processes
- Obtain required approval/s for donations and sponsorships
- Maintain accurate records of dealings with third parties
- Be vigilant and report any actual or suspected breaches of, or suspicious behaviour related to bribery, corruption or associated conduct
Directors and employees of Kubota:
- Must not receive any gifts, entertainment, or hospitality from any party including suppliers and agents acting on behalf of Kubota as well as any person or corporation (including a director or secretary of that corporation) that has entered into a Dealership Agreement with Kubota outside the KNZ Conflict-of-Interest policy
Due diligence and contract management
Kubota team members, including directors and employees, when contracting with a third party, must undertake and ensure completion of relevant and appropriate due diligence in advance of the making of a contract. Due diligence must be conducted in accordance with Guidelines determined by each department and/or any guidelines provided by Kubota, as amended from time to time. Contracts may only be executed by those with the authority and power to do so in alignment with Kubota’s Delegation and Authority Schedule, as amended from time to time.
Record keeping
All accounts, invoices and other documents and records relating to dealings with third parties (including due diligence reports), must be prepared and maintained with strict accuracy and completeness. No accounts may be kept “off the books” to facilitate or conceal improper conduct, including improper payment.
Internal control systems and procedures adopted to comply with this policy will be the subject of regular internal compliance reviews by the Compliance Officer, and potentially external audit, to provide assurance that they are effective in mitigating risk and non-compliance.
Reporting breaches
Actual or suspected breaches of this policy must be reported in accordance with the Procedure below.
Consequences of breach
A breach of this Policy may be regarded as serious misconduct in employment, leading to disciplinary action, which may include immediate termination of employment and referral to appropriate authorities and/or other legal action. Other parties committing a breach may be subject to termination of contractual agreements without notice, and/or referral to authorities and/or other legal action, as appropriate.
Procedures
Reporting actual or suspected breaches
Reports should be made:
- By email to kau_g.whistleblower@KubotaAustralia.com.aufor receipt by Kubota’s Compliance Officer in respect to Australia and New Zealand.
- To a General Manager or officer of Kubota (such as a Board member) by email or telephone at +61 9394 4400, on the understanding that these will need to be referred to the Compliance Officer
- Anonymously to: Kubota Australia Pty Ltd, Compliance Officer, 25-29 Permas Way, Truganina, VIC, 3029 Australia
Key resources
Conflict of Interest Policy and Procedure
Delegation and Authority Schedule
PROTECTED DISCLOSURES/ PROTECTION OF WHISTLEBLOWERS
Purpose
This Policy supports compliance with the Protected Disclosures (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act 2022 (New Zealand). It aims to create a safe way to report wrongdoing, to protect whistleblowers and those that are the subjects of yet to be investigated and substantiated concerns from adverse action, discrimination and victimisation. The Policy provides a framework to deal with and remedy reported matters.
Scope/ Eligibility
This Policy extends to serious wrongdoing that occurs before or after the commencement of this Policy.
A team member, including employee, former employee, contractor, secondee or volunteer may make a disclosure under this policy.
Policy
What to report
Should you have reasonable grounds or belief to suspect that misconduct has occurred, or that an improper state of affairs or circumstances exist within Kubota New Zealand you may choose to make a report. The subject of any report may include current or former team members (including employees and contractors), officers or Board members of Kubota New Zealand. Please refer to the Kubota Australia policy in relation to the making of a Whistleblower complaint regarding Kubota Australia.
Misconduct may include, but is not limited to:
- Breach of specific legislation
- Dishonest, corrupt or illegal activities
- Serious breach of Policies and Procedures, including serious risks to health and safety or environment
- Fraud, theft, money laundering or misappropriation
- Offering or accepting a bribe
- Damage/ sabotage
- Instruction to cover up or attempt to cover up serious wrongdoing/ actual or potential offences
Personal work-related grievances covered by the Employment Relations Act are excluded from his Policy and should be dealt with under other policies and New Zealand employment law.
Protected Disclosure/ Report
A “Protected Disclosure” is a report made in accordance with the Protected Disclosures (Protection of Whistleblowers) Act 2022 and this Policy.
Nothing in this Policy is intended to abrogate or diminish any additional or alternative protections which may be available at law. To be protected under this Policy, a discloser/ whistleblower must:
- be acting with reasonable belief that the information in the allegation is true or likely to be true
- make the disclosure in accordance with this Policy; and
- not have engaged yourself in illegal or serious misconduct in relation to the conduct you are reporting. However, you may still wish to report this in the knowledge that it is not a protected disclosure.
Advice prior to lodgement
Before making a report, it is recommended that you contact the Office of the Ombudsman, New Zealand for advice and guidance.
Who to report to
Depending on a range of circumstances, you may choose to make a report internally to Kubota New Zealand or externally. See the Procedures section regarding who to report to, in what format and the information to include in your report.
Alternatively, you may determine that it is reasonable and necessary for you to make your report directly to relevant authorities or external entities. The Office of the Ombudsman has a listing of all relevant authorities and can provide advice regarding appropriate lodgement of disclosures.
Protections
Investigation and findings
Kubota shall apply principles of procedural fairness and natural justice to the conduct of any investigation and resultant findings arising under this Policy.
Duty not to disclose identity
A team member to whom a report has been made, must not disclose either a discloser/ whistleblower's identity, or any information likely to lead to the identification of the discloser/ whistleblower. The only exceptions are where:
- the identity of the discloser/ whistleblower is disclosed with the consent, is provided as required by law to regulatory or law enforcement bodies if required, or is given to a lawyer in order to obtain legal advice or representation; and
- information likely to lead to the identification of the discloser/ whistleblower (but not the discloser/ whistleblower's identity) is disclosed because it is reasonably necessary for the purpose of investigating the matter, and the person takes all reasonable steps to reduce the risk that the discloser/whistleblower will be identified.
Protection from discrimination and victimisation
The whistleblower/s, nor the person/s who are the subject of a yet to be investigated and substantiated concern must not be treated adversely nor discriminated against in any aspect of employment and must not be victimised. Refer to the Harassment, Discrimination and Bullying Policy and relevant legislation such as the Human Rights Act 1993 (New Zealand) for further information.
Should any action be taken against an employee who is a discloser/ whistleblower they may take action as prescribed at law such as raising a personal grievance or instituting action under the Human Rights Act 1993 (New Zealand).
Limitation of Policy
Kubota have no ability to offer discloser/s, whistleblower/s immunity against criminal or civil legal action that may be taken against them.
Procedures
Who to report to
Depending on a range of circumstances, you may choose to make a report internally to Kubota. You may make a report to:
- The nominated Whistleblower Protection Officer, currently the Compliance Officer.
- A General Manager on the understanding that they will need to refer this to our nominated Whistleblower Protection Officer.
- An officer of Kubota New Zealand (such as a Board member).
- The General Manager of Finance and Administration should the subject of complaint be the Compliance Officer.
- Care of whistleblower@kubota.com which is received by our nominated Whistleblower Protection Officer in respect to Australia and New Zealand.
- Anonymously to: Kubota Australia Pty Ltd, Whistleblower Protection Officer, 25-29 Permas Way, Truganina, VIC, 3029.
Where the subject of the report is the Whistleblower Protection Officer, the report should be made to the General Manager, Finance and Administration (who will assume, or delegate to an external professional, all case management duties of the Whistleblower Protection Officer). Should the General Manager, Finance and Administration also be implicated, the report should be made to Kubota New Zealand's Managing Director (who will assume, or delegate to an external professional, all case management duties of the Whistleblower Protection Officer and General Manager Finance and Administration). Where the Managing Director is implicated, the report may be directed to the Kubota Australia Board or Kubota Corporation if more appropriate to do so.
Alternatively, you may determine that it is reasonable and necessary for you to make your report directly to relevant authorities or external entities. Contact the relevant authority/s or entity/s for detailed information or refer to Protected Disclosure information contained on their website/s.
Content of report
Your report may be made verbally or in writing. It is strongly preferred that you make a report in writing to ensure clear communication and to enable the best possible management of the matter.
Information you should pass on in your report should include:
- date of report
- identity of reporter (if disclosed/ known)
- substance of report
- any dates or details of when, where or how the reportable conduct occurred
- the identity or level of seniority of the person/s who are the subject of the report
- the perceived level of risk or gravity of the reportable conduct
- any other pertinent matters or evidence.
Receipt of reports
If you receive a Whistleblower report, you must ensure it is conveyed to the Whistleblower Protection Officer expediently. It is recommended that you pass on the report within 24 hours, or sooner where it would be assumed the matter would be urgent or involves a potential emergency.
Once you have passed on the report, you should take no further action. You will generally not be kept updated as to the status of the report. You must not discuss the report further and must maintain confidentiality at all times.
Investigation Process
Where a Whistleblower Report is made internally, or Kubota become aware of the substance of a report that is made externally, the Whistleblower Protection Officer will ensure that an investigation is undertaken in a timely manner. Where there is sufficient information to do so, an investigation will be undertaken to the full extent possible based on the information contained in the allegation or level of awareness of the substance of any concern/s.
The Whistleblower Protection Officer (or alternate as outlined above if the Whistleblower Protection Officer or their Manager are implicated) will:
- Undertake a preliminary review of the matter.
- Determine if there is sufficient information to conduct an investigation.
- Determine if an external professional organisation should be engaged to case manage and/or conduct the investigation and/or provide findings and recommendations as to appropriate action.
- Create a plan for the investigation, inclusive of any witnesses to be contacted, information to be sourced, professional advice (eg. legal, taxation, etc) to be sought and indicative timeframes.
- Conduct the investigation, or, oversee that it is conducted.
- Ensure the findings of the investigation are clearly documented.
- Review and provide recommendations, or ensure any external organisation provides recommendations, to the Managing Director (via the General Manager Finance and Administration if appropriate) based on the specific individuals involved or systemic matters and risks.
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- Recommendations can include any course of action from disciplinary action to referral to appropriate authorities.
- Where appropriate and relevant, enter risks into the Kubota Risk Management framework for management.
- Maintain, or direct the maintenance of, all appropriate records.
Findings and actions
The Managing Director shall make any final decision and determine any actions based on the findings and recommendations. The Managing Director is not required to adopt recommendations and shall determine any actions. The Managing Director is responsible for ensuring (via delegation or directly) that actions are implemented.
Where the subject of the report is the Managing Director, the Kubota New Zealand Board then Kubota Australia Board would assume this responsibility, or Kubota Corporation if this is more appropriate.
Contact with Discloser/ Whistleblower
Should Kubota determine that it is appropriate to do so in light of confidentiality, privacy and legal constraints, and the discloser/ whistleblower indicates they would like to be kept updated, the discloser/ whistleblower may be kept up to date in regards to key milestones within the investigation process. Where Kubota determine that a referral to an appropriate authority or external entity is necessary, it may not be possible to provide updates.
MODERN SLAVERY POLICY
Purpose of policy
This policy affirms our commitment to contribute to ending all forms of modern slavery and outlines our approach to reducing the risk of modern slavery practices within our supply chains and operations. It is consistent with our Ethical Framework, that expects a culture of high ethical standards, including compliance with applicable laws, contractual and other obligations. As a result, this Modern Slavery Policy is part of the Ethical Framework. This Policy supports the Modern Slavery Act (Cth) 2018
Context
Modern slavery describes situations where coercion, threats or deception are used to exploit individuals and undermine or deprive them of their freedom. Kubota Australia (KAU) strives to use, insights gathered through its business activities to contribute to ending all forms of modern slavery by ensuring our own supply chains and operations don’t contribute to modern slavery practices, and to take appropriate action to respond to the humanitarian impacts of modern slavery
Scope of policy
This Policy applies to all employees, suppliers, and business partners of entities controlled by KAU, including Kubota Finance and Kubota New Zealand
Definitions
Modern Slavery Act 2018 (Cth) being the Commonwealth legislation (the Act) enacted by the Parliament of Australia on 29 November 2018 (and may be amended from time to time).
Modern slavery for the purposes of this policy is defined as including eight types of serious exploitation and outlined in Section 4[1]
Operations is defined as activity undertaken by KAU and any of its subsidiaries
Partnership means all relationships between KAU and a Partner whereby KAU grants the Partner the possibility of using its name, emblem/logo or image in its communication and promotional materials, thereby potentially creating a public association of image between the Partner and KAU. This relationship includes arrangements of; sponsorships, cause-related marketing initiatives, and strategic alliances
Risks of modern slavery practices means the potential for KAU to cause, contribute to, or be directly linked to modern slavery through its supply chains and operations.
Kubota Australia is the term used to refer to Kubota Australia Pty Ltd and its subsidiaries, not the broader Kubota Corporation.
Kubota People include any current:
Members of a Governance Body (members of the KAU board)
Employees
Suppliers is defined as any organization or person who provides us with goods or services, including their subcontractors, agents, related entities, and consultants.
Supply chains is defined as the products and services (including labour) that contribute to KAU’s own products and services. This includes products and services sourced in Australia or overseas and extends beyond direct suppliers
What is modern slavery
Modern slavery is defined by the Modern Slavery Act (Cth) 2018[2] to include eight types of serious exploitation and which can be understood as:
trafficking in persons, which is the recruitment, harboring and movement of a person for the purposes of exploitation through modern slavery. Exploitation also includes the prostitution of others or other forms of sexual exploitation, forced labour or services, slavery or practices like slavery, servitude or the removal of organs.
slavery, which is where the offender exercises powers of ownership over the victim
servitude, which is where the victim’s personal freedom is significantly restricted, and they are not free to stop working or leave their place of work
forced labour, which is where the victim is either not free to stop working or not free to leave their place of work
forced marriage, which is where coercion, threats or deception are used to make a victim marry or where the victim does not understand or is incapable of understanding the nature and effect of the marriage ceremony
debt bondage, which is where the victim’s services are pledged as security for a debt and the debt is manifestly excessive or the victim’s services are not applied to liquidate the debt, or the length and nature of the services are not limited and defined
the worst forms of child labour, which involves situations where children are: exploited through slavery or similar practices, including sexual exploitation; or engaged in hazardous work which may harm their health or safety, or used to produce or traffic drugs
deceptive recruiting for labour or services, which is where the victim is deceived about whether they will be exploited through a type of modern slavery[3]
KAU approach to limiting the risk of modern slavery practices
KAU will work proactively to reduce modern slavery within our supply chains and operations, and we expect all organizations we engage with to do the same.
Supply Chain
KAU Supplier Code of Conduct
We expect all existing and new Suppliers to comply with the principles set out in our Supplier Code of Conduct. Fundamental to the Supplier Code of Conduct is an expectation that all Suppliers operate in full compliance with the laws and regulations in the jurisdiction where the goods are sourced, procured or services are performed. Suppliers must use best endeavors to ensure that there is no modern slavery in their supply chains and operations. In the event Suppliers identify any occurrence of, or material risk of modern slavery in their supply chains or operations they are to take practical and effective steps to address that occurrence or risk. Suppliers must notify KAU as soon as practicable of any occurrence of, or material risk of modern slavery they have identified and notify relevant authorities where appropriate.
KAU’s contractual terms
Our contractual terms reflect Supplier obligations outlined in the Supplier Code of Conduct, including compliance with Australian modern slavery laws and those foreign modern slavery laws that apply in the locations in which they operate.
Supply chain mapping and risk assessment
We encourage our suppliers to complete a Corporate Social Responsibility questionnaire which contains questions relevant to modern slavery. Answers to this questionnaire will provide us with a greater understanding of the risk of modern slavery within a supplier’s supply chains or operations and enable us to work with a supplier to reduce the risks identified. We will actively and progressively improve our understanding and oversight of all tiers of our supply chains
Operations
Modern Slavery Policy
KAU maintains a Modern Slavery Policy (this Policy) outlining our approach to reducing the risk of modern slavery practices within our supply chains and operations. The Policy provides guidance on the steps KAU takes to work with suppliers to reduce risks and the range of supports available for when a KAU person becomes aware that someone is at risk of or affected by modern slavery practices.
Incorporating modern slavery into other policies
When existing policies undergo policy review or new polices are under development, policy owners are required to identify existing modern slavery commitments that can be enhanced, or where modern slavery protections can be incorporated.
Human Resources
We are committed to ensuring the health, safety and wellbeing of our workforce and we maintain a suite of policies that are informed by and compliant with Australian workplace occupational health and safety law.
Supplier Screening
The Supplier Code of Conduct requires KAU to complete a supplier screening tool before entering into a partnership with another organization. Prospective suppliers automatically disqualify from public association with KAU if they are knowingly or deliberately engaged in activities running counter to:
The Movement’s objectives and Fundamental Principles
Principles of International Humanitarian Law
Internationally recognized standards of human rights, labour rights and protection of health
Communications, Engagement and Training
KAU team members will be provided communications and training opportunities to enhance their understanding of the causes and humanitarian impact of modern slavery, the Modern Slavery Policy and our approach to limiting the risk of modern slavery within our supply chains and operations. KAU team members with purchasing responsibilities are provided additional training on the KAU Supplier Code of Conduct, Corporate Social Responsibility tool and supporting suppliers to undertake due diligence. KAU team members who initiate and periodically review relationships with third parties are provided with training to apply due diligence processes.
Continuous improvement approach to reducing the risk of modern slavery
We are committed to applying a continuous improvement approach to how we reduce the risk of modern slavery practices within our supply chains and operations. We will seek feedback from KAU team members, Suppliers, and other parties regarding the success or otherwise of the actions we have taken to reduce the risk of modern slavery.
By 31 December each year we will publish a Modern Slavery Statement that outlines the steps we have taken over the reporting year to identify where our supply chains and operations may be contributing to modern slavery practices, and the actions we have taken to minimize these risks.
Reporting Concerns of modern slavery
Reporting unethical or unlawful conduct
A key part of supporting ethical standards is enabling KAU team members and suppliers to feel free and safe to speak up when there are reasonable grounds to suspect that KAU team members or any of KAU’s suppliers are not acting ethically or in accordance with laws and obligations. Concerns about compliance or ethical issues or illegal or unethical activities are to be reported according to our whistleblower policy
Responding to concerns of modern slavery practices
The Australian Federal Police is responsible for investigating suspected cases of modern slavery and can be contacted on 131 237 to discuss or report a suspected case. Contact can be made anonymously.
In an emergency and if someone is in immediate danger, please call Triple Zero (000) for police assistance
[1] Modern Slavery Act (Cth) 2018. Available from : https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2018A00153
[2] Modern Slavery Act (Cth) 2018. Available from : https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2018A00153
[3] Department of Home Affairs. Commonwealth Modern Slavery Act 2018: Guidance for reporting entities (2018). Available from https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/criminal-justice/files/modern-slavery-reportingentities.pdf
Supplier Code of Conduct
I. Kubota Group Mission
[Food, water and the environment are indispensable for human beings. The KUBOTA Group continues to support the future of the earth and humanity by contributing products that help the abundant and stable production of food, help supply and restore reliable water, and help create a comfortable living environment through its superior products, technologies and services.]
II. Purpose of Kubota Group Supplier Code of Conduct
The purpose of this Supplier Code of Conduct is to promote management that increases the value of the entire company through cooperation between the Kubota Group and its suppliers by indicating the items that the Kubota Group requires suppliers to address and compliance with them.
III. Scope of Application
This Code of Conduct applies to all suppliers who provide products and services to Kubota Group. If the supplier uses its associated business partners in connection with a transaction with the Kubota Group, we expect the supplier to make a similar requirement to the associated business partners.
IV. Implementation of the Supplier Code of Conduct
The Kubota Group may require suppliers to explain or provide information through questionnaires, etc. about their compliance with the Supplier Code of Conduct. If a supplier or its associated business partners are found not to comply with the Supplier Code of Conduct, the supplier is required to promptly report to our Supplier hotline. At our Supplier hotline, we accept opinions and comments of all employees of our suppliers, including management, regular and temporary employees, part-timers and casual workers. For information on Kubota Group Supplier hotline, please refer to https://www.kubota.com/sustainability/society/procure/index.html
For Kubota Australia/New Zealand Supplier hotline, please refer to below contact details:
By email to kau_g.whistleblower@KubotaAustralia.com.au for receipt by Kubota’s Compliance
department in respect to Australia and New Zealand. Telephone: 1300 582 582
Anonymously to: Head of Compliance and Internal Control, 25 - 29 Permas Way Truganina VIC 3029
Australia
If a supplier or its associated business partners are found to have violated this Supplier Code of Conduct or violated human rights, the Kubota Group may require the supplier to take appropriate measures to prevent or minimize the scope of the violation, to verify the measures, and to provide corrective measures and remediation to the victims of the situation arising from the violation. For suppliers who fail to respond to our requirements, and Kubota Group believes that this will have a significant impact on Kubota's business, Kubota Group may review the business relationship with the supplier.
V. Kubota Group Supplier Code of Conduct
- Legal Compliance and Business Ethics
All suppliers shall comply with the laws and regulations of the countries and regions in which they operate and conduct business in accordance with international rules.
- Fair Competition
All suppliers shall respect “fair and free competition”, comply with the provisions of Anti-Trust Laws and
other related laws and regulations, and not engage in unfair transaction practices.
- Improper Payment
Suppliers must comply with the Kubota New Zealand’s Anti-bribery and Corruption policy1. No suppliers shall make bribes, kickbacks or other illicit payments to political organizations, government officials, employees of the Company or other third parties in order to obtain an unfair advantage. Kubota Group suppliers and their employees, agents and representatives shall comply with Kubota Group's “Request for Understanding and Cooperation in Anti-Bribery Activities” and shall not accept, solicit, offer or pay bribes or provide anything of value, directly or indirectly, to Kubota Group employees or third parties.
For further details, please refer to "Request for Understanding and Cooperation in Anti-Bribery Activities"
at https://www.kubota.com/sustainability/society/procure/data/requests_20210218_english.pdf.
- Intellectual Property
All suppliers shall respect the intellectual property rights of others, including patent rights, utility model rights, design rights, trademark rights, copyrights, and know-how, and shall not use such rights improperly.
- Confidential Information
All suppliers shall protect all confidential information of the Kubota Group, such as sales, technical, management and personal information (all business information not disclosed outside the Company), and shall permit access to such information in a legitimate manner if such access is permitted under applicable law.
1 https://kubota.co.nz/company/corporate-governance
- Electronic Information
All suppliers shall ensure thorough information security and appropriately manage electronic information to prevent leakage, theft or alteration of electronic information. For further details, please refer to "Information Security Measures Standards for Business Partners at https://www.kubota.com/sustainability/society/procure/index.html.
- Appropriate and Timely Disclosure of Corporate Information
All suppliers shall disclose appropriate corporate information on their management and business activities in accordance with relevant laws and regulations at an appropriate time and in an appropriate manner upon our request.
- Ensuring Proper Quality
All suppliers shall not only comply with laws, regulations, codes and standards, but also ensure that the responsible department is responsible for ensuring safety and excellent quality in each operational process, from development to production, sales and service. In the event that a possible safety problem is identified, our relevant department is to be informed promptly and accurately, and suppliers will work to resolve the problem and prevent its spread.
- Elimination of Relationships with Antisocial Groups
All suppliers shall take a resolute stance against antisocial groups that threaten the order and safety of civil society and cooperate with the police and other relevant organizations to ensure thorough elimination of any relationships of such groups. No suppliers shall accept unreasonable demands from antisocial groups under any circumstances.
- Stable Supply of Products and Services
All suppliers shall develop the necessary systems to ensure a stable supply of products and services by formulating a business continuity plan (BCP) in preparation of disasters or unforeseen events that may hinder the stable supply of products and services.
2. Labour and Human Rights
In accordance with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we require all suppliers to respect the dignity and rights of all people, refrain from human rights violations, respect privacy and protect personal information.
(*In order to respect and ensure human rights and freedoms, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights is a declaration of "a common standard of achievement for all peoples and all nations" and was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.)
- Child Labour
No suppliers shall employ persons under 15 years of age or under the age of completion of compulsory education, whichever is higher, in their business activities and supply chains.
- Forced Labour and Responsible Employment
No suppliers shall engage in bonded labour, indentured servitude, forced labour, slave labour, labour by sentenced persons, labour resembling slavery, or labour through trafficking in persons. Forced labour includes violation of the rights of vulnerable groups, deception, restriction of movement, isolation, physical or sexual violence, threats and intimidation, withholding of identity documents, withholding of wages, debt bondage, inadequate work and living conditions, and forced or excessive overtime. All suppliers shall ensure that foreign workers do not pay recruitment and placement fees (in excess of the legal amount) in their placement and, suppliers or their recruitment agencies shall not deprive workers of their identity documents. Suppliers are expected to proactively identify, address and where required by legislation, report on risks of modern slavery practices in their business operations and supply chains. For further details, please refer to our Modern Slavery Policy2.
- Wages and Working Hours
All suppliers must ensure that all employees receive at least the legally prescribed minimum wage and benefits. If possible, provide a living wage. All suppliers must, at the very least, comply with the laws, standards and practices applicable in the country in which they operate in terms of working conditions and hours.
- Occupational Health and Safety
All suppliers shall provide workers with a safe and healthy working environment and shall appropriately manage the health and safety of workers. They shall also provide the necessary training on occupational health and safety in a language that workers understand.
2https://kubota.co.nz/company/corporate-governance
- Harassment
No suppliers shall tolerate any form of harassment, including sexual harassment and power harassment, or any other violation of human rights, such as bullying.
- Discrimination
No suppliers shall discriminate against workers on the basis of race, sex, colour, nationality, religion, age, pregnancy, marital status, social or ethnic origin, sexual orientation, political beliefs, disability, union membership, or any other grounds. Kubota New Zealand strives to promote and influence improvements in gender equality across its Supply Chain through procurement policies and practices.
- Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining
All suppliers shall allow workers to freely join and bargain collectively in accordance with local laws without interference, discrimination, retaliation or harassment. In addition, where the right to join or form a trade union is not fully protected by law, suppliers must facilitate and not impede parallel and alternative means of independent and free association and negotiation.
- Marginalised Populations/Groups
All suppliers shall respect the land and natural resources on which people of marginalised
populations/groups live without depleting or depriving them.
3. Global and Local/Regional Environment
We require all suppliers to understand the basic ideas set forth in the "Kubota Group Green Procurement Guidelines" and comply with the standards required of suppliers, and the environmental considerations required for goods procured from suppliers. For further details, please refer to the "Kubota Group Green Procurement Guidelines" at https://www.kubota.com/sustainability/environment/procure/index.html.
4. Others
In Europe and the United States, laws and regulations requiring specific products, parts, and raw materials to undergo environmental and human rights due diligence are being developed. In order to comply with this requirement, Kubota may require suppliers that handle specific products, parts, or raw materials to confirm the usage status, provide information on the supply chain, purchase from specific suppliers, and conduct environmental and human rights due diligence. We also ask all suppliers to establish a mechanism for handling employee complaints.
- Human Rights Policy
All suppliers shall strive to develop human rights policies in accordance with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.
- Due Diligence on Products, Parts and Raw Materials and Compliance with Environmental Laws and Regulations
All suppliers are directly or indirectly responsible for the import and export of products (including their raw materials and parts) delivered to Kubota Group and must be aware of and comply with the laws and international rules applicable to international trade. This includes obtaining (or assisting in obtaining) the necessary licenses, approvals, certificates or other permits and making accurate customs declarations. It also includes cooperation in conducting due diligence and providing accurate information on the place of origin necessary for the Kubota Group to comply with regulations (examples include, but are not limited to, the Dodd-Frank Act on Conflict Minerals, the EU Battery Regulation, and the EU Deforestation Regulation) that require due diligence on raw materials and parts suspected of involvement in child labour, forced labour or environmental destruction. In the area of environmental legislation, this includes investigating and responding to environmental hazardous substance surveys, CBAM (European Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), etc.
- Grievance Mechanisms
All suppliers shall endeavour to establish a grievance mechanism that enables workers, both named and anonymous, to raise complaints and concerns to management and employee representatives without retaliation from the company, and to provide effective solutions to such complaints and concerns.
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