Below are the Department's core values. The core values and guiding principles for the Department are derived from the National Public Service Ethics and Values:

• Honesty -
  The Department and its staff will foster actions consistent with Christian principles, social norms, family expectations and modern organizations.
  
  
• Integrity -
  The actions of the Department and its staff will be characterized by clear, sound and ethical policies & practices.
  
  
• Accountability -
  The Department and its staff will take ownership of their actions and ensure they are transparent.
  
  
• Respect -
  The Department and its staff will recognize that the sector can only be developed successfully with collaborative efforts.
  
  
• Wisdom -
  The Department and its staff will operate with a deep level of consideration and of resilience when addressing the activities and issues of both the Department and sector.
  
  
• Responsibility -
  The Department will welcome this next phase of progress conscientiously and with energy and commitment.