Review of UCA Code of Ethics and Ministry Practice begins
This major review - the first in 16 years - provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen the ethical foundations and ministry practices that support the life of the Uniting Church
September 17, 2025
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The Assembly is pleased to announce that a comprehensive review of the Uniting Church in Australia’s Code of Ethics and Ministry Practice is now underway – the first major review since 2009.
Rev Jenny Byrnes has been appointed as Consultant to lead the review. With 42 years of vocational experience in the Uniting Church, her theological depth, leadership experience and practical insight will be invaluable throughout the process.
In this role, Jenny reports to the Assembly’s General Secretary, Andrew Johnson, and is supported by a Reference Group comprising representatives from each Synod and the Standards for Ministries Committee.
“By drawing on diverse voices from across the Church, the Reference Group will help to ensure that the review is both theologically grounded and practically relevant,” Jenny said.
“They will play a crucial advisory role providing theological reflection on the Code’s function within Church life, offering feedback on how it is currently applied, and assessing how it responds to evolving legal, ethical and social expectations.”
Jenny commenced her work with the Assembly earlier this month and has already begun developing an initial survey. The aim is to distribute the ready survey to the Pastoral Relations Committee (PRC) of every Presbytery by the end of October.
“The survey will be open for between six to eight months to ensure PRCs have sufficient time to provide details on where they see gaps in the current Code of Ethics, where there are difficulties and where it needs strengthening,” Jenny added.
“This process is a vital opportunity to strengthen the ethical foundations and ministry practices that support the life of the Church.”
While the release date for a revised Code has not yet been finalised, the Assembly anticipates it will be published in the second half of 2026. Further updates will be shared as the review progresses.
Rev Jenny Byrnes
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