Code of conduct proposed for politicians

Draft laws to set up a statutory code of conduct to boost the integrity of politicians have been introduced to federal parliament.

The bill seeks to stamp out conflicts of interests by ensuring members of parliament and their staff abide by a code of conduct, which includes rejecting gifts that may influence their decision making.

Independent MP Cathy McGowan introduced the bill to the lower house on Monday, as the latest part of a bid to establish a national corruption watchdog.