Editorial and research principles
Readers should be able to see how we reached a finding, where the evidence came from and what remains uncertain. These principles apply to our research, analysis and explainers.
Evidence and interpretation
We distinguish reported facts from our interpretation of them. Figures identify the source, reference period and population being measured. An estimate is labelled as an estimate. A gap in a published policy is not presented as proof that no activity takes place, and the absence of an Australian certifier is stated as a fact about certifiers, not as a finding about what buyers do.
Methods readers can examine
Major research includes a published method, definitions, sources and limitations. Where we code public documents, we explain the categories used and the treatment of missing or ambiguous information. We publish supporting data where consent, confidentiality and licensing permit.
People who contribute
Research participants receive information about the purpose of the project, how their contribution will be used and the choices available to them. We agree how a person may be identified before publishing their account or quoting them. We do not infer an owner’s identity from their name, appearance, partner or business branding.
Funding and responsibility
Just Gold funds and publishes Pride in Business through its impact program. The publication does not currently earn revenue. Its research, articles and explainers are free to read. Readers may quote short extracts with attribution; permission to reproduce substantial material should be requested.
The Aurum Foundation contributes research review. Because the organisations share a founder, we do not describe that review as independent. Just Gold remains accountable for what it publishes. A reviewer can question the method or interpretation; a commercial relationship cannot purchase a change to the findings.
Conflicts of interest
Just Gold works with government, business and community organisations, including organisations discussed by this publication. Relevant current or recent relationships are disclosed alongside the work concerned, as are material relationships involving an author or reviewer.
Participation in research creates no obligation to purchase services from Just Gold. Findings and coverage are not negotiated as part of a commercial engagement.
Responses and corrections
Where we make a material criticism of an identifiable organisation, we seek a response before publication and allow a reasonable time to reply. We include a fair account of the relevant response, subject to accuracy, privacy and legal considerations.
Material errors are corrected visibly, with a date and an explanation. Research datasets carry a version history. Minor spelling and formatting corrections may be made without a separate notice. Report an error.
Attribution
Our articles are original work. When we draw on someone else’s research, reporting or ideas, we name the source and provide a link where possible. We do not pass another organisation’s work off as our own.