The Banking and Financial Services Oath (BFSO) is a unique industry-led initiative that provides those working in financial services with a mechanism to reflect on what it means to behave ethically, and with integrity. With an aim of building trust and encouraging ethical behaviour, the Oath contains a set of commitments that individuals adopt and apply as personal principles in their work.
Founded by The Ethics Centre in 2013, the BFSO has had more than 6000+ individuals taking the Oath since its inception, including the CEOs and Chairs of Australia’s leading financial institutions.
On 1 March 2021 the BFSO merged with The Ethics Centre so as to expand and enrich conversations within the banking and finance industry on ethical issues.
Connecting financial service professionals through a shared belief in the inherent ‘good’ of the banking and finance industry, the BFSO fosters ethical practice through valuable conversations, events, and exemplary individual commitment.
Speaking on how the BFSO came about, Simon Longstaff, Executive Director of The Ethics Centre, said “The BFSO was born out of the dark days of the GFC and the need to affirm the ethical foundations on which people working in banking and finance ultimately stand. It reminds us that, at its best, banking and finance can be a noble calling. The Ethics Centre welcomes the opportunity to work with a new generation of ethical leaders ready to build on the legacy of those who launched and nurtured this inspiring initiative.”
Rebuilding the industry’s reputation and public trust starts with the individual. This is the strength of the Oath.
6349
SIGNATORIES SINCE INCEPTION
57
YOUNG AMBASSADORS MENTORED THROUGH OUR PROGRAM
THE OATH
Trust is the foundation of my profession.
I will serve all interests in good faith.
I will compete with honour.
I will pursue my ends with ethical restraint.
I will help create a sustainable future.
I will help create a more just society.
I will speak out against wrongdoing and support others who do the same.
I will accept responsibility for my actions.
In these and all other matters;
My word is my bond.
GET INVOLVED
The BFSO supports discussion and exploration through a range of initiatives and a program of regular events. For more information visit the BFSO website — bfso.org