Ho-Ho-Howdy, Legends!

Welcome to Australia’s ultimate end-of-year startup celebration. To make sure everyone has a cracking good time, here’s our Code of Conduct. Think of it as Santa-approved rules to avoid ending up on the naughty-get-outta-here list—because we all know he’s watching!

Code of Conduct

1. Chill—Don’t Be a Grinch!

We’re here to share stories, not create horror ones. This is a no-drama, good vibes-only event.

  • Treat everyone—attendees, speakers, volunteers, and even the snacks table—with respect and kindness.

  • Maintain an atmosphere free from harassment or any behaviour that is inappropriate for our friendly, workplace-appropriate event environment.

By attending our ultimate EOY startup celebration, all attendees agree to abide by the Code of Conduct. Non-compliance may result in immediate ejection from the event and bans from future events organised by Aussie Founders Club, Newsary’s, and our sponsors. The organisers have sole discretion in determining whether the Code has been upheld.

2. Harassment-Free, Safety & Security

We have a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY for harassment.
This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Unwanted comments

  • Uninvited touching

  • Aggressive behaviours

  • Anything that makes someone else feel uncomfortable

If you spot anything dodgy, notify a team member immediately. We’ll handle it faster than you can say, “Ho Ho No!”

We’re also proud to partner with Hello Canopy. More to come on this soon!

  • If you feel unsafe or witness unacceptable behaviour, inform a volunteer or organiser, or report it through Hello Canopy via the displayed QR codes.

  • Your safety comes first, and we’ll do everything in our power to address any issues.

3. Keep It Clean (and Legal)

  • Illegal substances are not tolerated.

  • Enjoy the party responsibly—have a cheeky drink, but keep it festive and legal, not feral.

  • Any illegal activity will be reported to the proper authorities.

4. Don’t Be a Scrooge: No Stealing

  • Theft of any kind—be it ideas, swag, or the last Christmas cookie—is strictly prohibited.

  • If you’re caught stealing from an individual or any private/public area, expect serious consequences, including possible involvement of authorities.

5. Reporting Issues: We’ve Got Your Back

We’re proud partners of Hello Canopy to ensure a safe and supportive environment.

  • If you experience or witness something not-so-jolly, let us know.

  • Find a team member (Marie, Megan, or Liz) or use the displayed QR codes to report issues through Hello Canopy.

If you do make a report, know that we will handle it securely and with the attention it needs. The general process would be: 

  • We'll let you know once we have your report and that we're looking into it 

  • A member of the event organising team will determine next best steps - this could be anything from a conversation to a formal investigation

  • We'll keep you posted along the way and ensure that you know about the outcome of it 

We’re committed to making this event fun, safe, and filled with Christmas spirit!

6. Xmas Spirit Must Be On (Okay, It’s Optional—But Merrier!)

Embrace the festive vibes! Whether you’re rocking an ugly Christmas jumper or humming Mariah Carey under your breath, let’s create memorable, fun stories together.

This event is about celebrating startups, our community, creativity, and a touch of holiday magic!

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, waters, and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures, and the Elders past, present, and emerging.

Let’s make this an unforgettable celebration!

🎄